What is a postnasal drip syndrome
In postnasal drip syndrome (PNDS), fluid drips from the nasopharynx down into the throat (“postnasal” Latin = coming after the nose, “drip” English = dripping). This is a running nose, so to speak, except that the secretion does not come out of the nose at the front, but rather at the back in the direction of the throat. The postnasal drip syndrome is often caused by a congested nose and is associated with a rhinitis. PNDS is not an independent clinical picture, but a syndrome that can occur in the context of various diseases.
Treatment
The treatment of postnasal drip syndrome depends on the triggering factor. In the case of a cold, a decongestant nasal spray can relieve the congested nose and ensure that the mucus can flow out of the nose at the front. Most colds are caused by viruses, so antibiotic treatment does not make sense.
However, a harmless cold often heals on its own within a few days and does not require explicit treatment. Green nasal secretion can indicate a bacterial infection, which may need to be treated with antibiotics. The doctor may prescribe expectorants to combat the formation of mucus and irritable cough.
If an allergy is the cause of PNDS, antiallergic drugs such as antihistamines or glucocorticoids may help. Depending on the cause of the disease, surgical intervention may also be necessary to remove constrictions and the resulting blockage of the nose. The surgeon will try to be as minimally invasive as possible to avoid scarring the face.
During the operation, the paranasal sinuses are opened, thus trying to restore the normal function of the mucous glands. After the operation, patients must use nasal sprays containing cortisone for several weeks and rinse the nasal mucous membrane regularly with sea salt water. A number of different household remedies have proven effective in the treatment of postnasal drip syndrome and can be used to dissolve mucus.
An efficient method of treating the congested nose is a nasal shower or gargling with a saltwater solution. The saltwater solution can be easily prepared by dissolving one teaspoon of salt (preferably sea salt) in 250 ml of warm water. Another expectorant option is inhaling with essential oils or herbs (such as peppermint, chamomile or lavender) over hot steam.
During the illness, patients should make sure that they drink enough liquid in the form of warm tea and water. Milk, on the other hand, should be avoided, as it leads to increased mucus production. Drinking it moistens the mucous membranes and the viscous mucus can dissolve more easily.
Moist air also has a similar effect on the mucous membranes. This can be achieved by regularly airing the rooms or by using a humidifier. Homeopathy can be used for postnasal drip syndrome. Which globules or drops are most suitable depends on the cause of the disease and the exact symptoms. Your pharmacist or a homeopath can help to find a suitable homeopathic remedy.
