Sinus Drainage

Post nasal drip is an unscientific term that refers to the sensation of thick phlegm in the throat, which can become infected without sinus drain.

The nasal cilia system in the sinuses defend us from sinus diseases. When the amount of liquid secreted by the nose and sinus is reduced without proper sinus drainage, and the cilia of the nose and sinus slow down, you can become aware of increasing fluid thickens. Since the thick phlegm is unpleasant and often infected because it is "just laying there" and not moving, our bodies naturally try to get rid of it, to the annoyance of our partners. Whether caused by pollution, chemical exposure, or severe infection, resolving the problem requires that the cilia mucous system be brought back to normal

Moisturizer spray is good, but avoid moisturizing sprays with additives or preservatives such as benzalkonium (which can actually be the root of your problems). I like preparations which you make yourself, so they're economical, and which come with a refillable spray bottle. This allows you to moisturize and clean your nose frequently, right away when you are exposed to diesel bus fumes, smoke, or dust. If the stuff is expensive, or isn't in a bottle convenient for carrying with you, you are less likely to use it right when you are dry or exposed to irritants. Look for a nasal/sinus moisturizer that contains no irritating additives, including Benzalkonium, and which comes in a convenient spray bottle for cleaning out your nose on the go. A good sinus moisturizer can be used as often as desired to promote sinus drainage, and because it is free of irritating additives, there is no sting, so kids will be comfortable using it.

Whatever helps to move the cilia will help the sinus drain. Drink lots of hot tea. Hot compresses over the nose, above and below the eyes helps restore ciliary function. A Pulsatile Nasal Irrigating device such as the Hydro Pulse sinus irrigator, performed daily for 2 weeks is often sufficient because the pulsation encourages good ciliary movement. Stagnant mucous is also removed along with bacteria. Often the key is to simply drink enough water to liquefy the secretions.

What about coffee?
There is nothing wrong with coffee, it's just that tea is what is known to stimulate cilia movement. Ice drinks slow the cilia, as do most antihistamines. Sometimes patients are taking a large number of different medications and these combine to make the nose dry and prevent proper sinus drain. Here, pulsatile irrigation is probably the best treatment..

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