Sinus drainage is a natural phenomenon, and a certain amount of mucus secretion from the sinuses is considered normal. It is one of the methods adopted by the body to handle pollutants and microorganisms that enter the sinuses. Sinus drainage can be of two types, nasal secretion or post nasal drip. In other words, the sinuses may drain through the nose or through the back of the throat. In normal cases, a certain amount of mucus is drained out of the sinuses through the nose or the throat, and this may go unnoticed. However, excess drainage can be uncomfortable, and may even cause bad breath and cough. Common cold or allergies cause excess sinus drainage. In such cases, the sinus cavities get irritated and inflamed, thereby causing secretion of excess mucus. The excess mucus production may sometimes negatively affect proper drainage. If left untreated, this excess mucus may cause sinus and ear infections. Treatment As excess sinus drainage can cause severe discomfort and other problems, like bad breath; treatment is needed to stop such drainage. The main purpose of the treatment is to drain sinus cavities effectively, to cure the infection. As the infection clears up, the drainage will also stop. Though there are medicines meant for countering this problem, home remedies are usually preferred. Proper Hydration: One of the commonly used sinus drainage remedies is water. You have to drink plenty of water and other fluids (preferably hot, like herbal teas), so that the accumulated mucus gets thin and flows out properly. Without sufficient hydration, the mucus gets thick and worsens congestion, thereby increasing the risk of sinus infection. Eight to ten glasses of water per day will be sufficient for this purpose. Use a Neti Pot: Popularly used for nasal irrigation, neti pots are associated with the age-old yogic tradition of India. A neti pot is like a teapot with a spout, and is used to clean the nasal passages. Fill it with warm saline solution for cleansing the sinus cavities. You can prepare the neti pot solution by mixing a quart of warm purified water with a teaspoon each of non-iodized salt and baking soda. Keep your head at an angle of about 45 degrees, and place the spout of the neti pot on one nostril. Allow the solution to pass through one nostril, and let it come out through the other nostril. Blow the nose after that, and repeat the process through the other nostril. You may use the neti pot daily, or as often as needed. However, keep the neti pot clean, and never share it with others. The most important thing is that you must know how to use the neti pot properly. If you experience any pain or discomfort after using a neti pot; discontinue its use, and consult your health care provider. Medication: Antihistamines are the most commonly used drugs for sinus drainage treatment. Apart from preventing allergic reactions, antihistamines can also dry out excess mucus, thereby reducing the drainage. In case of bacterial sinus infection, antibiotics are also used for treatment. Even though, these drugs do not stop the drainage, they remedy the cause, i.e., bacteria. As the infection is cleared, the drainage will also stop. Some people find saline drops and sprays effective in remedying excess sinus drainage. These medicines are said to be safe for both kids and adults. However, medicines and nasal drops must be used according to the instructions of your doctor. Steam inhalation is another popular home remedy for sinus drainage. Sinus drainage can be treated effectively with these home remedies, provided the condition is mild. Moderate to severe cases require medical attention. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.