Post-nasal drip is an often painful and irritating condition. One of the side effects of post-nasal drip (PND )is a sore throat. Depending on the cause, there are various types of treatments for. Some stop the problem completely, while others help soothe.
Natural Treatment
Post-nasal drip can be caused by a sinus infection, allergies or excessive mucus production. Refraining from dairy can help reduce the mucus production that causes the sore throat. With less mucus applying pressure to your throat, there is less cause for the sore throat. Drinking juice such as apple, grape and cranberry helps reduce PND. Water aids in the dilution of mucus; without massive amounts of mucus, the tonsils and throat glands are less likely to swell and cause pain. Nasal aspiration also aids in the removal of mucus, helping to eliminate the sore throat. According to Dr. Stephan A. Nezezon, fill a 4-ounce paper cup halfway up with warm water. Put ½ tsp of salt into the cup, and stir until the salt is dissolved. Slowly pour the solution in each nostril, as this will help clear the sinus area of excess mucus.
Over the Counter and Prescription
Cough drops and serums are useful in helping relieve the discomfort of a sore throat. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen also help suppress the pain. Some prescriptions like Nasarel, Rhinocort, Flonase, Nasonex, Veramyst can be used as a nasal anti-inflammatory to reduce tonsil and gland swelling.
Surgery
Sometimes surgery is required if PND is caused by chronic sinusitis. This extreme approach entails opening up the sinus passages and clearing the blockage. The operation is usually outpatient; the surgery usually takes about one to two hours and one to two hours is usually required for recovery before allowed to leave the hospital. Depending on the severity of the sinus problems, local or general anesthesia is administered. Surgery rarely needs repeating as this operation is intended to fix the problem completely. Patients usually return to work in about two weeks and sleep for the first 24 hours after returning home. Discomfort is expected afterwards; prescription narcotics are usually prescribed. There are no long term side effects; the first couple of weeks after surgery there will be discomfort, but decreases as healing occurs.
Tags: sore throat, mucus production, problem completely, side effects