What steps should I take to reduce excess mucous production?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 22-year-old individual with a weight of 194 pounds and a height of 5.5 feet (66.9 inches). I am currently taking medications such as carbamazepine for my seizures. Whenever I am exposed to cold environments, such as fans, wind, air conditioning, or refrigerators, I experience excessive mucous production, resulting in a runny nose. This makes it challenging for me to go outside. I have consulted numerous ENT doctors who have prescribed decongestants and tablets, but they only provide temporary relief. This issue has persisted for the past 3 to 4 years. Additionally, my nasal passage has an irregular shape, which the doctors have identified as sinusitis. I have taken medication for sinusitis, but once I stop the treatment, the symptoms return. I have also noticed that I need to take a hot bath upon waking up, as failure to do so leads to symptoms throughout the day. The problem initially began with ear pain, and these symptoms gradually emerged. Prior to this issue, I used a Vicks inhaler. I vaguely recall taking Oxytocin, antibiotics, and other tablets, although I cannot remember the specific details. No laboratory tests have been conducted, except for an X-ray performed by one of the doctors to assess the irregular shape of my nose. All the doctors I have seen share a similar opinion. Given this information, I would like to seek advice on what steps I should take to address this ongoing issue. Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to iCliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concerns.

It appears that you may be experiencing allergic rhinitis, which is caused by allergies to cold temperatures, dust, and other factors. When exposed to these triggers, you experience inflammation, nasal congestion, and excessive mucous production, which can eventually lead to sinusitis.

To address this issue, we need to follow the following steps:

Focus on two factors, reducing nasal congestion and preventing the sudden onset of congestion after exposure to cold. It would be beneficial to avoid or minimize the consumption of cold food items and exposure to cold environments.
For temporary relief from nasal congestion, I suggest you use nasal decongestants and antihistamines such as Cetirizine (cetirizine hydrochloride), Fexofenadine (fexofenadine hydrochloride), or Montelukast (montelukast sodium) tablets.
However, for a more permanent solution, I suggest you consider using specific antiallergic nasal sprays like fluticasone or mometasone. These sprays, such as Fluticone-FT (fluticasone) or Duonase (Fluticasone Propionate and Azelastine) nasal spray, should be used regularly at night for three to four months. They help reduce allergy symptoms and minimize sudden nasal congestion after exposure.

Using these measures can provide relief and help manage your allergic rhinitis.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.