Everyday, our body produces 1 to 2 quarts of mucus. Normally, the mucus mixes with saliva and drips down the back of the throat to be swallowed gradually throughout the day. Only when your body produces more mucus than usual or the mucus is thicker does it become more noticeable. This excess mucus can come out the front of your nose in the form of a runny nose, or down the back of the nose to the throat, which is called post-nasal drip.
Post-nasal drip treatment depends on the source of the problem, which can be diagnosed by our Dallas Fort Worth ear, nose, and throat specialists. Infections caused by bacteria are treated with antibiotics.
Postnasal drip caused by sinusitis and viral infection can be treated with antihistamines and decongestants. They can also be effective, along with steroid medications or nasal sprays, for postnasal drip caused by allergies.
Another treatment option for post nasal drip is to thin your mucus. A simple remedy to thin mucus is to drink more water.
Post nasal drip creates a nagging feeling to constantly clear your throat. Post nasal drip also can trigger a cough, which often gets worse at night. In addition, excess mucus running down your throat may also make you feel hoarse and give you a sore throat.
If the mucus plugs up the Eustachian tube — the tube that connects the throat to the middle ear, it can lead to a painful ear infection. When mucus blocks the sinus passages, it can lead to a sinus infection.
To learn if you are suffering from post-nasal drip, it is important to schedule an appointment with your DFW Sinus Select Ear, Nose and Throat specialist (ENT) to be properly diagnosed for your sinus issues, and receive information on the treatment.