If you have been congested or suffered from a runny nose you likely have experienced post-nasal drip. When we are sick, our bodies produce excess mucus in order to try to flush out the virus or bacteria attacking our bodies. This leads to symptoms like congestion, however, when there is too much mucus being created with nowhere for it to go, the mucus will drain slowly down the back of your throat leading to post-nasal drip. Keep reading to learn more about how to treat post-nasal drip and when to seek medical treatment. If you’re suffering from illness symptoms, walk into AFC Urgent Care Edgewater. Our walk-in clinic offers same-day illness symptom diagnosis and treatment in Edgewater, MD - 7 days a week!
How to Tell if You Have Post-Nasal Drip
Post-nasal drip is a common symptom of mild illnesses and seasonal allergies. It typically accompanies other symptoms related to the sinuses like congestion or a runny nose. It occurs when excess mucus is produced and instead of exiting through the nose, it runs down your throat into your stomach. Post-nasal drip usually goes unnoticed, however, it can sometimes cause irritation to your throat making you cough. If you feel like your throat is irritated or you can feel the mucus in your throat, you may be on the verge of getting sick. Post-nasal drip can also linger for weeks following an illness.
How to Treat Post-Nasal Drip
In most cases, post-nasal drip causes minimal discomfort. Because of this, there is no need to worry about treating that specific symptom when you’re sick. Oftentimes it will resolve on its own once your immune system gets rid of the infection causing your illness. Treating congestion and sinus symptoms as a whole will help ensure that your post-nasal drip resolves as quickly as possible. Using an over-the-counter decongestant can help break up the mucus so that you can expel it more easily. Nasal sprays can also help resolve congestion if it is causing you discomfort. If you are experiencing severe symptoms like facial pain, a fever, body aches or a severe sore throat you should seek medical care for your symptoms as they may require treatment in order to resolve.
Post-Nasal Drip Diagnosis & Treatment near Edgewater, MD
If you’re suffering from illness symptoms such as congestion and post-nasal drip it is important to monitor your symptoms closely. Treating your symptoms early can help prevent them from worsening. Post-nasal drip is a common symptom of mild illnesses like colds, which most of the time do not require medical treatment and can be safely treated at home with proper symptom management.
If you have post-nasal drip, it is often an early sign that you’re getting sick. Seeking medical care for a medical diagnosis can help ensure that you begin any necessary treatments such as antibiotics before your symptoms worsen. Your medical provider can confirm whether you have post-nasal drip by looking at your nose and throat. Based on their findings, they may run diagnostic testing to determine what kind of infection is causing your symptoms so that they can recommend the most effective treatment plan.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Edgewater for Same-Day Illness Symptom Treatment in Edgewater, MD
If you are experiencing an itchy sensation or irritation in the back of your throat, you may be experiencing post-nasal drip. At AFC Urgent Care Edgewater, our medical staff is experienced in identifying subtle early illness symptoms like post-nasal drip to treat illnesses before they worsen. Our clinic offers same-day illness treatment for patients in Edgewater, MD 7 days a week. We never require that you schedule an appointment in advance to receive prompt treatment for your illness symptoms, simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable care. Walk in today!
