Post-Nasal Drip Home Remedies
Post-nasal drip (PND) is a common problem that occurs due to excessive mucus production by the nasal mucosa. It’s an extremely irritating and uncomfortable situation to deal with and can affect people of any age. Glands in the lining of the nose, throat and airways continually produce mucus, a sort of thick, wet substance. It moistens and cleans the nasal membranes, humidifies the air in the airways, traps and clears inhaled foreign matter and fights infections. Usually, you do not notice the mucus from your nose as you swallow it unconsciously throughout the day. But when it is overproduced, the mucus starts dripping from the back of your nose, causing post-nasal drip. Here are some of the best Post-nasal drip remedies.
1. Gargle Salt Water
Most problems with postnasal drip are very irritating but will eventually go away. But you can alleviate some symptoms by gargling with salt water which can help soothe your sore throat. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt to 1 cup water and gargle away.
2. Drink Fluids
Try to drink at least six to eight glasses of water a day. Drinking water or broth will help thin the mucus and also keep your body well hydrated to replace the fluids lost during a cold. But, make sure to avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which may cause further dehydration and inflammation.
3. Ginger
Ginger definitely rules among top natural home remedies for post nasal drip. It is antibacterial, antiviral and expectorant. Therefore, ginger can stop your body from producing too much mucus. This spice plays an important role in treating bad symptoms of post nasal drip, such as sore throat or chest congestion.
How to apply:
- Get sliced ginger (one teaspoon) into water
- Simmer them in about 10 minutes before straining
- Use a bit honey to have better taste and consume it a few times per day
4. Steam Inhalation
Another simple tip from top home remedies for postnasal drip is using steam treatment as it can efficiently manage the excessive production of mucus. It is also one of the best home remedies for chest congestion.
5. Load up on Vitamin C
The popularity of lemon is somewhat from its rich content of vitamin C which plays an essential role in the fight against infections. Undeniably, lemon is one of the most effective natural home remedies for post nasal drip. It will loosen and finally eliminate mucus that your body produces excessively. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, can boost up the immune system to help the body resist various types of infections. You can squeeze half a lemon in warm water and adding honey to taste, which is known for its anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties.
If nothing else helps, make sure to seek medical attention if you have allergies and have ever experienced the following symptoms during an attack: a wheezing sound when you breathe; chest congestion that makes breathing difficult, often accompanied by wheezing or asthma; welts, also called hives, which occur after exposure to an allergen. Welts may be an early warning sign of life-threatening anaphylactic shock. It often occurs with bee stings, but can happen with other allergies as well.
