Home remedies for post nasal drip
Post-nasal drip occurs when your sinuses produce excess mucus discharge that runs down the back of your throat. You may also feel like mucus is collecting in your throat. This is mostly caused by the thickening or overproduction of mucus. Postnasal drip can also occur with hormonal changes such as during pregnancy. Read the article further to know about some home remedies for post nasal drip.
Drink fluids
Thick mucus is more likely to be uncomfortable and disrupt your breathing. Thinning it out can help to reduce blockages, reducing your risk of sinus or ear infections. An easy method to thin your mucus is to drink an adequate amount of fluids each day. Drinking fluids will also moisturize your nasal lining. Hot drinks, like tea or broth, are the best choice.
Steam inhalation
Steam inhalation can ease postnasal drip by thinning mucus. The steam will also moisten your nose and throat, helping mucus pass through. You can inhale steam during a hot shower or bath. You can easily follow this natural remedy to treat the symptoms of post nasal drip at home.
Gargles
Gargling saltwater will loosen up mucus. It’s also helpful for soothing a sore throat. To make a saltwater gargle, dissolve ½-teaspoon of salt into 8 ounces of warm water. Gargle for as long as it feels comfortable, then spit it out. Repeat twice a day. If you gargle using saltwater, it will prove to be even more effective.
Nasal rinse
A nasal rinse can loosen thick or excess mucus. It’s also known as a sinus rinse, sinus flush, or nasal irrigation. Nasal rinse products are available at the drugstore. Neti pots and squeeze bottles are common options. Never use tap water, as it may contain harmful germs. Instead, use water that is distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled.
Humidifier
Using a cool mist humidifier can help to raise the moisture level in the air. Dry air can worsen postnasal drip symptoms. The mist from a humidifier helps to moisten the tissues inside your sinuses and help to thin your secretions. This may make it easier for you to breathe. And, drink more liquids as directed.
Chicken soup
Chicken soup is an old home remedy for many kinds of respiratory issues. Researchers have shown that chicken soup may have some modest anti-inflammatory effects during colds, but they note that the real benefits of chicken soup may have more to do with the psychosocial support that we receive when someone lovingly makes soup for us.
Avoid smoking and alcohol
Chemicals in cigarettes can irritate your nasal passages and cause mucus to build up. This is the case whether you are a smoker yourself, or whether you are exposed to secondhand smoke. Not only is cigarette smoke an irritant, but it has been found to inhibit the natural process of clearing our airways. It is advised to avoid both cigarettes and alcohol.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapists use essential oils to help clear out the mucus causing your postnasal drip. There are several ways to inhale the vapors, including through the air with a vaporizer or diffuser, or by putting a few drops on a small cloth and breathing in. Aromatherapy is one of the best home remedies to treat a post nasal drip.
