To get rid of post-nasal drip, it’s important to address both the symptoms and the underlying causes. For relief, you can try several effective home remedies and over-the-counter options[1]:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water or warm fluids, like tea or broth, to thin out mucus and soothe your throat[1].
- Use Steam or a Humidifier: Inhaling steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water, or using a humidifier, can help moisten and clear your nasal passages[3].
- Elevate Your Head at Night: Prop up your pillows to keep mucus from collecting at the back of your throat while you sleep[2].
- Try Nasal Irrigation: Using a neti pot or saline nasal spray can flush out mucus, irritants, and allergens[1].
- Gargle Saltwater: Gargling with saltwater can loosen mucus and temporarily relieve sore throat symptoms caused by post-nasal drip[2].
- Consider Over-the-Counter Medications:
- Guaifenesin (Mucinex): A mucus-thinning medication that helps make secretions easier to clear[3].
- Oral Decongestants (like pseudoephedrine) or nasal decongestant sprays (like oxymetazoline): Reduce swelling in the nasal passages and decrease secretions (nasal sprays should only be used for a few days)[3].
- Antihistamines (such as loratadine, cetirizine, or fexofenadine): Helpful if allergies are contributing to your symptoms[3].
- Avoid Triggers: If allergies or irritants are the cause, try to reduce your exposure to them. For reflux-related post-nasal drip, avoid acidic, spicy, or carbonated foods and drinks, especially before bedtime[4].
For persistent or severe post-nasal drip lasting more than one to two weeks, or if you have symptoms such as fever, foul-smelling mucus, or difficulty breathing, see a healthcare professional to rule out infections or other underlying issues[5].
References
- [1] What Is Postnasal Drip: Sore Throat From Sinus Drainage – WebMD
- [2] Home Remedies for Postnasal Drip: What Works, What Doesn’t – Healthline
- [3] Treatments for post-nasal drip – Harvard Health
- [4] How to Stop Post-Nasal Drip Quickly, According to Doctors – Prevention
- [5] 6 Postnasal Drip Home Remedies That Actually Work – GoodRx
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