Postnasal drainage, or postnasal drip, occurs when excess mucus accumulates in the back of your throat and leads to symptoms such as throat clearing, coughing, and a feeling of something constantly dripping down the back of your throat. This condition has many causes, most commonly allergies and sinus infections.
Short-lived postnasal drip with a cold, upper respiratory tract infection or irritation by something you may be allergic to is normal. If it lasts more than 90 days, it may indicate chronic rhinitis or chronic rhinosinusitis.
At Memorial Village Sinus and Hearing in Houston, Texas, Dr. Conrad McCutcheon addresses chronic rhinitis (and the resulting postnasal drip) with an evaluation that will likely include nasal endoscopy and an ultra-low dose sinus optimized CT (cat) scan in the office. If evaluation confirms chronic rhinitis, medications may be prescribed.
Depending on the response to appropriate medications, chronic rhinitis may also be addressed by using by using an intranasal cryotherapy device δΈ€ specifically ClariFix® cryotherapy — to produce a more durable result without the need for frequent and continuous medication use. In other words, he tackles the root causes of your postnasal drip.
Here’s what you need to know about ClariFix cryotherapy for postnasal drip.
Managing postnasal drainage has traditionally involved a combination of lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, and, in more severe cases, prescription medications. These treatments aim to alleviate symptoms and reduce mucus production.
However, as many as 22% of patients find that these first-line treatments fail to deliver lasting results. If you’re one of those people, you’re not out of options.
ClariFix cryotherapy represents a novel solution for a chronic, refractory and bothersome symptom. This minimally invasive procedure targets the root cause of excessive mucus production – inflamed nasal tissue and overactive nerves in the back of the nose.
Here's how it works:
During the ClariFix procedure, Dr. McCutcheon uses a specialized device to apply controlled nitrous oxide cryogen to specific nasal areas. It’s delivered from the tip of the device in a closed system to freeze the nerves without damaging normal adjacent tissues in the area.
This targeted cryotherapy is designed to reduce the overactive nerve signals in your nasal passages, which are often responsible for excessive mucus production and other allergic symptoms. By focusing on the overactive nerves responsible for chronic rhinitis, ClariFix cryotherapy can result in a noticeable and lasting reduction in postnasal drip symptoms. Many other allergic symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchiness may also be improved by this procedure.
There are many reasons why you might consider cryotherapy for postnasal drip.
Cryotherapy is sometimes referred to as cryosurgery. It is minimally invasive and is typically performed in the office. Patients report minimal if any discomfort during and after the treatment.
Unlike more invasive nasal procedures, ClariFix cryotherapy typically allows for a quick recovery. Most people can resume their normal activities shortly after the procedure.
After ClariFix cryotherapy, most patients experience long-lasting relief from postnasal drainage symptoms. A clinical study published in the journal Laryngoscope reports that results continue even beyond 24 months post-treatment.
If you’re tired of dealing with postnasal drip from chronic rhinitis, visit Dr. McCutcheon. Call Memorial Village Sinus and Hearing at 281-822-3777 and find out if cryotherapy is right for you or book a consultation using our online form.
