Tips for Naturally Relieving Postnasal Drip

Many people experience postnasal drip during flu season, which tends to be in the colder months of the year. If you’re feeling symptoms of constantly swallowing and thick mucus, you may be suffering from the dreaded condition. Some people turn to medication to quickly get rid of the symptoms, but there are plenty of natural remedies that don’t involve prescriptions. Here are some tips for naturally relieving postnasal drip.

Sleep Elevated

Normally, when you sleep with your head flat on the pillow, you wake up and feel fine. But when you have postnasal drip, the mucus can easily make its way to the back of your throat or, worse, to your sinuses. When you get ready for bed, try propping up your head on a few pillows to allow the mucus to drain from your nasal passages. However, avoid sleeping with too much elevation, as you may have neck or back pain in the morning, which might just exasperate your symptoms.

Gargle With Salt Water

Gargling with warm salt water is a method that families have passed through generations because of its ability to relieve congestion. Salt water can break up mucus and irritants in the throat and mouth, allowing the phlegm to leave your body when you blow your nose or spit it out. Try placing half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and stirring until completely dissolved. Gargle for 10 to 15 seconds before spitting it out.

Use a Humidifier

Often, the winter months dry out the air in our homes, encouraging the production of thick mucus and making it easier for us to get postnasal drip. Try using a humidifier in your home to prevent dry air, as moist air thins out mucus. However, don’t forget to clean your humidifier at least once a week to remove any germs that may have grown inside of it.

Drink Hot Fluids and Eat Healthily

Perhaps one of the best things you can do for your postnasal drip is drink lots of fluids—particularly hot fluids. This includes water, soup, tea, and fluids with electrolytes. The hot fluids will loosen mucus and allow it to pass through your nasal cavities more easily.

When it comes to eating a healthy diet, you can naturally heal postnasal drip with more vitamins and minerals. For example, adding seaweed to your diet will give you an extra boost of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. A healthy diet promotes a stronger immune system, which enables your body to fight off unwanted mucus.

There’s no need to spend the start of the new year sick! Be sure to follow these tips for naturally relieving postnasal drip to start feeling better today.