Natural Home Remedies for Post-Nasal Drip

Here are some tips for simple things you can do at home to help you decrease, and possibly eliminate, the amount of medication you're taking for post-nasal drip. These suggestions can make you more comfortable and possibly even speed your recovery.

What Is Post-Nasal Drip?

Post-nasal drip occurs when the mucus your body produces becomes abnormally thick or thin, and you become aware of mucus draining down the back of your throat.

To be clear, it's natural and normal for mucus to run down the back of the throat but you may not typically notice it as long as it is the right consistency. Conditions that frequently cause or contribute to post-nasal drip include:

• Sore throat
• Voice loss or hoarseness
• Persistent clearing of the throat
• Persistent cough

These symptoms can be caused by allergies or cold viruses. Post-nasal drip can also occur with hormonal changes such as during pregnancy or as a side effect of certain medications.

Seeking Medical Care

Post-nasal drip does not always require a consultation with a medical professional. However, you should see a doctor if:

• Your post-nasal drip lasts longer than a few weeks.
• You have difficulty swallowing.
• You feel like you're choking.
• You suspect a bacterial infection.

Home Remedy Basics

The following home remedies are helpful in treating post-nasal drip, regardless of the exact cause. You can use some treatments in conjunction with your doctor's prescription, however, check with your doctor first to avoid interactions.

Thick Mucus

The following home remedies are most helpful if you have thick mucus:

• Avoid dairy products. While dairy doesn't cause your body to make mucus, it may make it thicker.
• Drink plenty of water because staying hydrated can thin the thickened mucus. Also, avoid dehydrating beverages, such as anything with caffeine or alcohol.
• Use a humidifier next to your bed at night or take hot, steamy showers. To loosen the thick mucus, breathe warm, moist air. A cool mist humidifier (versus warm mist) is helpful if you have inflammation in your throat or nasal passageways.
• Try an over-the-counter saline nasal spray to loosen thick mucus and clear the debris from inside your nose. This can be used quite frequently throughout the day.
• A neti-pot (a small and simple device yogis use for nasal irrigation) is helpful in relieving symptoms. While most studies on neti-pots show positive results, at least one study shows regular use of neti-pots may increase your risk of developing a sinus infection. Aim to use a neti-pot just once per week when you're not experiencing any infections or symptoms. Be sure to use a saline rinse, not just plain water. Avoid using a neti-pot regularly if you suspect a sinus infection or are particularly prone to developing sinus infections.

Thin, Watery Mucus

If you have thin, watery mucus, try these home remedies for post-nasal drip:

• Eat spicy foods, including the chili peppers in Thai or Indian food and the wasabi in Japanese cuisine, because they are expectorants. The spiciness encourages your body to expel mucus and is also known to lift your mood.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Avoid spending a lot of time in cold temperatures. For example, avoid exercising outside in cold weather. This is because cold weather encourages your body to produce more mucus.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapists use essential oils to help clear out the mucus causing your post-nasal drip and you can too. There are several ways to inhale the vapors, including a vaporizer, a diffuser and putting a few drops on a handkerchief. Essential oils for congestion include:

• Peppermint
• Eucalyptus
• Fennel

Despite the popularity of essential oils, you should avoid using these substances in small children or infants or if you have an underlying lung condition that could be aggravated by inhaling these oils. Additionally, never ingest essential oils.