What is Causing Your Post Nasal Drip?
Many conditions can cause postnasal drip. Allergies are one of the most common. Dr. Bublik can test for allergies and rule out if this is the cause of this annoying symptom.
Another common cause could be a deviated septum; this means the cartilage between your nostrils or septum leans to one side or is displaced. In some cases, the crooked septum can interfere with the drainage of the sinuses causing postnasal drip or resulting in repeated sinus infections.
Symptoms of Post Nasal Drip:
- Sore or scratchy throat
- Frequently clearing the throat
- excessive spitting up or swallowing mucus
- A cough that gets worse at night
- Foul breath
- Feeling of nausea caused by extra mucus in the stomach
There are other causes such as viral infections, sinus infections, changes in weather, dry air, spicy food, and certain medications.
Home Treatments:
- OTC decongestants
- Non-drowsy antihistamines
- Nasal Sprays
- Neti pots or sinus rinses
- Sleeping with your head elevated
- Staying hydrated
- Drinking warm hot liquids like tea, chicken soup
When to see Dr. Bublik
Make an appointment with Dr. Bublik if your symptoms have persisted through home treatments for more than ten days.
More serious symptoms:
- Green, yellow, or bloody mucus
- Mucus with a strong odor
- Fever
- Wheezing
In the case of a deviated septum, corrective surgery may be the only way to treat postnasal drip permanently. Septoplasty is the preferred surgical treatment to correct a deviated septum. Michael Bublik, MD specializes in Septoplasty and Sinus Surgery (Balloon Sinuplasty) and the medical and surgical treatment of patients with various nasal and sinus disorders including nasal obstruction, environmental allergies, acute and chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and sinus headaches. Dr. Bublik is a board-certified Head and Neck Surgeon and recognized leader in the field and has trained with the leading experts in this surgery. Contact Dr. Michael Bublik Today for a Consultation.
