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Suggest Treatment For Hard Mucus Plugs In Nose And Throat
Question: F, 44, many med probs, non sinus related. Broken upper mazilla about 5 years ago. On blood thinners. For about 3 months I have been experiencing heavy thich hard mucus plugs in nose and throat in the am. I use a cpap with humidified air. have tried using rinse and sprays with no luck. I am well hydrated generally. Left sinus (side that was broken) squeals after blowing it, even gently. Whats going on and what I can do to help? This affects my sleeping and i am often unable to breathe solely thru my nose.
Follow up info. Many med probs, including pro thrombin clotting condition. Taking many meds; two new in that time period, cymbalta and abilify (switching from prozac). *maxilla - of course. Did not heal well but only bothers me if I have a sinus infection or tooth problem. No other significant head trauma. No colds before or during this time. Mucus/phlegm is "normal" yellowish colour.
No allergies besides penicillin
Follow up info. Many med probs, including pro thrombin clotting condition. Taking many meds; two new in that time period, cymbalta and abilify (switching from prozac). *maxilla - of course. Did not heal well but only bothers me if I have a sinus infection or tooth problem. No other significant head trauma. No colds before or during this time. Mucus/phlegm is "normal" yellowish colour.
No allergies besides penicillin
Brief Answer:
Need additional treatment...
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Based on your description, I consider post nasal drip as the very likely problem. Continuous use of CPAP with humidified air at night in some people is reported to cause nasal congestion which can aggravate post nasal drip. Since saline rinse and sprays aren't of much help, I would suggest we add some more treatment to relieve congestion. The measures I suggest are:
1. Using a decongestant.
2. Starting antihistamines.
3. Or even topical steroid sprays.
Discuss about these and other options with your treating ENT surgeon.
Regards
PS: Acid reflux is another condition that can cause similar symptoms. I haven't discussed about since I am not aware of your complete medical history. I am sure your ENT will check for it.
Need additional treatment...
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Based on your description, I consider post nasal drip as the very likely problem. Continuous use of CPAP with humidified air at night in some people is reported to cause nasal congestion which can aggravate post nasal drip. Since saline rinse and sprays aren't of much help, I would suggest we add some more treatment to relieve congestion. The measures I suggest are:
1. Using a decongestant.
2. Starting antihistamines.
3. Or even topical steroid sprays.
Discuss about these and other options with your treating ENT surgeon.
Regards
PS: Acid reflux is another condition that can cause similar symptoms. I haven't discussed about since I am not aware of your complete medical history. I am sure your ENT will check for it.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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