The body naturally produces mucus to prevent the nasal tissues from drying out. Mucus also serves as a defense mechanism to prevent dust and allergens from entering the body via the respiratory tract and causing allergies. However, excessive mucus production causes postnasal drip, affecting one’s breathing and daily routine. Many factors can lead to excess mucus production. This post discusses the known causes, common symptoms, and options to manage the problem.
Causes
Following are the common causes and risk factors that trigger excessive mucus accumulation and related breathing discomfort:
Weather changes
Abrupt changes in the weather, including severe temperature dips and cold spells, can easily trigger the health condition. It occurs as the body’s immune system kicks into high gear to defend itself from infection.
Infections
Common viral, bacterial, and sinus infections that trigger the common cold, flu, and cough are high-risk factors.
Allergies
Seasonal and perennial allergies caused by tree, grass, pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and even pet dander at home can trigger a severe reaction, resulting in postnasal drip.
Acid reflux
Acid reflux is also cited as a leading cause. The stomach acid churned up into the esophagus causes inflammation and damages the tract’s tissues.
Symptoms
The following signs vary depending on the type of trigger and severity of disease progression:
Continuous nasal drip
Mucus accumulation triggers a continuous drip in the nasal passages and forces excessive swallowing at the back of the throat.
Swelling of the tonsils
Swelling of the tonsils or throat tissue, dry/sore throat, and a lumpy feeling at the back of the throat are signs of postnasal drip complications.
Besides the above, a frequent need to clear one’s throat and garbled speech indicate mucus accumulation and should not be ignored.
Treatments and remedies
Patients can manage their symptoms and lead a healthy life by combining home remedies and suggested treatments:
Nasal sprays
Bacterial infections are a leading trigger of postnasal drip. Doctors recommend nasal sprays to counter the infection and prevent flare-ups. These are pretty effective for immediate relief. Doctors may also suggest using decongestants, coupled with nasal saline irrigation, to clear the mucus and resolve inflammation. These solutions mainly dry out the excess mucus produced and stop the incessant dripping from the nasal cavity. The dosage will vary depending on the trigger’s severity.
Antihistamines
Allergens in the atmosphere also trigger a postnasal drip. The body’s immune system tries to eliminate the inhaled allergens from the respiratory tract through the nasal cavity by producing excess mucus. Doctors suggest a combination of antihistamines, decongestants, and other treatments to thicken the mucus. This stops the leak and resolves discomfort caused due to mucus accumulation. Doctors also recommend intravenous allergy doses to desensitize the body and provide long-term allergy relief.
Drinking more fluids
Doctors suggest drinking more water to thin out the secretions if the mucus is too thick to move along the nasal passage. This may seem counterproductive to treat a postnasal drip, but the purpose of drinking water is to ease congestion and allow the mucus to easily evacuate the nasal cavity. Nutritionists also suggest avoiding caffeinated and other beverages that can result in dehydration.
Using a humidifier at home
Inhaling dry air can trigger unwanted discomforts, worsening the symptoms. So, doctors recommend using a humidifier at home to retain moisture in the air and ease breathing problems. Steam inhalation can also help break up the dry mucus and clear nasal blockages that trigger breathing difficulties. But remember that these are solutions for immediate relief only, so discuss the pros and cons of long-term use with a doctor.
Changing the sleeping posture
Changing one’s sleeping position can help alleviate breathing difficulties at night. Doctors suggest sleeping on propped-up pillows to keep the head high and prevent the mucus from accumulating at the back of the throat. This position also lowers the risk of choking or suddenly waking up due to heavy congestion in the nasal cavity.
