Post-nasal drip, or post-nasal drip syndrome, is a condition that occurs when mucus secretions from the sinuses drain into the throat.1 Your body naturally produces mucus in order to fight infections and moisten the nasal passages.2 Excess mucus that drips down your throat can lead to complications like
Most of the time, post-nasal drip is nothing to worry about and will clear up on its own. Patients who frequently experience post-nasal drip may be able to take steps to prevent it, such as by avoiding allergens or irritants.
What Causes Post-Nasal Drip?
Post-nasal drip causes are vast and may include:
Dehydration and irritants like cigarette smoke may make post-nasal drip symptoms worse.4
Post-Nasal Drip Symptoms
Symptoms of post-nasal drip syndrome include:
Individuals with post-nasal drip may feel a constant need to swallow or clear their throat.4 In cases where post-nasal drip syndrome is caused by a bacterial infection, additional symptoms may include:
Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these signs of an infection or if your post-nasal drip symptoms persist for longer than 10 days.
In many cases, these post-nasal drip symptoms clear up on their own. However, depending on the cause, medical attention may be required. Your doctor might prescribe antihistamines if you are experiencing post-nasal drip due to allergies, or you may need prescription antibiotics to treat an infection. If post-nasal drip is caused by a deviated septum, surgery may be required.
Over-the-counter medications or natural post-nasal drip herbal remedies can also help relieve symptoms. Be sure to drink plenty of water as this can help thin out the mucus and provide comfort and relief.
References
Stinging Nettle is the most effective natural product for Post-nasal Drip CuresDecoded worldwide community recommends
Stinging nettle is a natural remedy for eliminating hay fever symptoms including post-nasal drip. The most effective form for post-nasal drip is an infusion made from dried stinging nettle herb. Add 2 teaspoons of dried stinging nettle leaves to 1 cup of boiling water. Let steep for 15 minutes. Drink 4 cups daily.
Ginger has anti-inflammatory benefits that can help with post-nasal drip. Chop up pieces of ginger and eat 3 times daily. Or make an infusion by adding chopped ginger to a cup of boiling water. Let steep 15 minutes then drink. Drink 3 cups daily.
Butterbur is known to help reduce symptoms of hay fever, including post-nasal drip. Take 50 mg of butterbur extract twice daily.
Echinacea is an herbal remedy traditionally used for colds and can help symptoms like post-nasal drip. Echinacea can be taken in tablet form in a dosage of 100 mg twice daily. Or you can prepare an Echinacea infusion. Add 2 teaspoons of dried Echinacea to 1 cup of boiling water. Let steep 15 minutes then drink. Drink 2-3 times daily.
The combination of honey and lemon can help with post-nasal drip. Mix raw honey and lemon together into a glass of water. Drink mixture 3-4 times daily.