Postnasal drip is so irritating. That flow of thick or thin mucus that we have all had from one time or another. But constant or chronic postnasal drip isn’t normal. This is a sign of a problem and should be treated by an ENT or ear nose and throat specialist.
Normal Nasal Secretion
The passages in your nose are supposed to be moist. Your sinuses and your nose should produce around a quart of moisture a day. This moisture keeps the system functioning and washes away dust particles and contaminants. This fluid gets washed to the back of the nose and into the throat by cilia or the small hair. Once at the back of the throat the moisture is swallowed and ends up in the stomach where it is digested.
Thin Secretions
Normally you aren’t even aware that you are producing and swallowing the secretions from your nose and nasal cavity. But if you have excessive thin secretions that cause you to blow your nose or upset your stomach on a regular basis it could be a sign of trouble. Thin secretions are often a sign of allergies or allergic rhinitis or of a cold. If you have thin secretions for more than 7 to 10 days in a row it is probably allergies. Colorado ENT can work with you to diagnose your allergies and have to develop an avoidance plan and prescribe medication or immunotherapy treatment to stop the thin secretions. Your thin postnasal drip could also be caused by a deviated septum. Your ENT will be able to diagnose and treat this as well.
Thick Nasal Secretions
Thick nasal secretions are normal in Colorado during the winter. The warm air is dryer and it causes our nasal secretions to get thicker. This makes them harder to swallow and can also cause a sore throat. Especially in Colorado, it is important to use a humidifier. This helps to keep moisture in the air to help keep nasal secretions thin. It can also help with nosebleeds that are caused by being overly dry.
If you are experiencing thick green or yellow secretions, it can be a sign of an infection or sinusitis. Drink plenty of fluids and try taking a decongestant. If you continue to have sinus pressure headaches, or your sinus problems won’t go away, we will treat your postnasal drip.
Our Team of ENT’s at Colorado ENT & Allergy can help. Our ENT professionals will get to the underlying problem of your postnasal drip. We care about you and your health.
