9 Home Remedies To Treat Postnasal Drip

A postnasal drip is something most everyone has had but that not many can recognize by the name. Every day, people swallow small amounts of mucus. This mucus usually comes from the sinuses, mixes with salvia, and causes people no problems. However, sometimes the body makes too much mucus, which makes it harder to swallow. Sometimes the mucus comes out the nose (making a runny nose), while other times it runs down the back of your throat (postnasal drip).

# Allergy Pills

Allergies to dust, pet dander, and the like are common causes of postnasal drip. While taking allergy pills isn’t exactly a “natural” home remedy, it is one that is efficient. Taking allergy pills can not only stop postnasal drip in its tracks, but it can also prevent it if you do not already have it. Taking daily 24-hour allergy pills is one of the best ways to keep postnasal drip at bay.

# Watch for Trigger Foods and Scents

Postnasal drip can be triggered by eating certain foods, drinking certain drinks, or even smelling certain smells. Triggers are likely to be different for each person. Sometimes, triggers are based on allergies. Both eating or smelling something that you are allergic to can trigger the symptoms.

If you have postnasal drip often, you may want to begin recording what you are eating, drinking, or smelling before the symptoms appear. This way, you can notice patterns and better avoid the trigger in the future.

# Vitamin C

Vitamin C is great to take in whenever you are feeling ill. This vitamin can help to boost the immune system. Having a healthy immune system can work to keep the cold and flu at bay, which can sometimes cause postnasal drip. You can take in more of this vitamin by taking vitamin supplements or eating foods that are naturally rich in vitamin C. Citrus fruits, including oranges and lemons, are high in vitamin C. If you do not like citrus, you can eat other fruits, as most fruits contain vitamin C.

# Stay Hydrated

It might seem strange to take in more liquid when there is excess mucus going down your throat, but this is actually one of the best things you can do to cure a postnasal drip. Drinking plenty of water and other fluids can help to both dilute the mucus so it is not so thick and help to treat a sore throat that often results in a symptom of postnasal drip.

# Hot Shower

Breathing in steam is a great way to clear out and open up the sinuses. Since the mucus that causes postnasal drip originates in the sinuses, it is best to keep them cleared out. Standing in a steaming hot shower until your sinuses feel clear. Do this up to twice a day to get the best results.

# Clean Bedsheets

Dust mites and other allergens can trigger postnasal drip. Believe it or not, beds are often covered in dust mites. It is best to wash your sheets and change your covers often. Wash your sheets about once a week, not just when they get messy. Doing this can both prevent and treat postnasal drip.

# Air Filters

Dust and allergens can fill the air, even in your own home. This is especially true if you have pets that shed. One way to keep the air clean is to use an air filter. Like keeping your sheets clean, this can also help to prevent and treat postnasal drip.

# Warm Beverages

Drinking warm beverages can be a great way to treat a sore throat, which is one of the most common symptoms of postnasal drip. Try drinking teas, warm cider, or hot water with lemon juice to both keep hydrated and to keep your throat lubricated.

# Chicken Soup

It’s not a myth–chicken soup really is great at treating the cold, and the postnasal drip that often comes with it. Chicken is full of natural antioxidants which can help to boost the immune system. Adding vegetables and spices to your soup can make the soup even more beneficial. Eat chicken soup once a day to get the best results.