From the Research
Chronic nasopharyngitis treatment should prioritize symptom management and addressing underlying causes, with nasal corticosteroid sprays like fluticasone being a recommended treatment option, as shown in a study from 2008 1.
Treatment Options
- Saline nasal irrigation using a neti pot or spray bottle with 1/4 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of distilled water can help clear mucus and irritants from the nasal passages.
- Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) at 325-650mg every 4-6 hours or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) at 200-400mg every 6-8 hours can reduce pain and inflammation.
- Antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin) 10mg daily or cetirizine (Zyrtec) 10mg daily may help if allergies are contributing to symptoms.
- Nasal corticosteroid sprays like fluticasone (Flonase) or mometasone (Nasonex), used as 1-2 sprays per nostril daily, can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
Additional Considerations
- Environmental modifications are also important, including using a humidifier to maintain 40-50% humidity, avoiding irritants like smoke and strong chemicals, and staying hydrated with 8-10 glasses of water daily.
- If symptoms persist despite these measures, consultation with an otolaryngologist may be necessary to rule out other conditions or consider additional treatments, such as suction diathermy ablation, as described in a study from 2010 2.
Prioritizing Treatment
- The treatment should prioritize reducing inflammation in the nasopharynx, thinning mucus secretions, and addressing allergic components that may perpetuate the chronic inflammation cycle.
- The most recent and highest quality study, from 2008 1, supports the use of nasal corticosteroid sprays as a effective treatment option for chronic nasopharyngitis.