Like tonsil stones post nasal drip is caused by an excess build-up of mucus in the back of the throat caused by a variety of symptoms such as allergies, sinusitis and laryngopharyngeal acid reflux in the throat, as well as an accumulation of Bactria. In fact, it is the proteins contained in the mucous that act as a food source for the bacteria. People suffering from either condition often find that the congestion in their sinuses and nasal passages make them feel as if they have to keep clearing their throats, swallow and or spit.
Additional symptoms may include runny noses, wheezing (even more than that caused by asthma), tickling or burning sensations in the back of the throat, as well as chronic soreness there. Some may also experience difficulty breathing, though for the most part, post nasal drip (often referred to as upper airway cough syndrome) is more uncomfortable for the sufferer, than considered to be a serious condition.On rare occasions, post nasal drip is credited with causing a sensation of “fullness” in the belly. A more severe sign of tonsil stones post nasal drip connection, however is chronic bad breath (halitosis).
While only people with tonsils can get tonsil stones (also known as tonsilloliths), it is a proven fact that those suffering from post nasal drip are “at least ten times more likely to develop the white calcified lumps on their facial or palatine tonsils located on the right and left sides of the throat as as well as the lingual tonsils at the back of the tongue. These lumps may also include bits of other minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus and ammonia carbonate in addition to the calcium deposits.
Tonsilloliths generally occur in adults more than children, and are often small enough to remain unnoticed. However, when large enough to actually protrude in the mouth they can give off a “metallic” taste as well as cause tightening in the throat, which cause a choking sensation and result in severe coughing bouts. They are also hard to remove at that point. Still, while uncomfortable, they are not generally considered harmful.
Over the counter allergy medicines containing antihistimines and decongestants, as well as nasal irrigation using squirt bottles filled with saline solutions and/or neti-pots are often sufficient means of treating tonsil stones and post nasal drip, although in more severe cases doctors may need to prescribe oral steroids (short term cure), as well as administer allergy shots containing nasal steroids and/or nasal crolom (long term). In other cases, minor surgery may be needed. Preventative measures such as staying away from alcohol (including mouthwash that contains alcohol) and avoiding dairy products and sugar, while drinking lots of water can also be effective in avoiding post nasal drip and thus the formation of tonsil stones. In addition, people should not only brush their teeth, but floss regularly, and be sure to have their teeth cleaned professionally at least once or twice a year to prevent the build up of harmful bacteria in their mouths. Hope you enjoy tonsil stones post nasal drip article here.