ClariFix Procedure

ClariFix Procedure for Postnasal Drip

What is postnasal drip? 

Postnasal drip, or catarrh, is a condition where large amounts of mucus from the nose drip into the back of the throat. 

A “runny nose” occurs when mucus inside the nose drips out of the nostrils. Postnasal drip is similar to when you have a runny nose, except that the mucus runs into the throat instead and irritates it. This can make it harder to breathe. 

What are the causes of postnasal drip? 

The inside lining of the nose produces large amounts of mucus in response to an irritation or infection. The common cold typically causes a runny nose, but it can also be a symptom of allergic rhinitis, which is caused by allergies. Most allergens (substances that cause an allergic reaction) are airborne and therefore are inhaled. These can also cause nasal congestion and drip. 

A nose that runs continuously is usually a sign of an inflammation, irritation, or infection that hasn’t yet been treated. 

What are the symptoms and complications of postnasal drip? 

Acute rhinitis (the technical term for runny nose) refers to an irritation of the nose that produces sneezing, a burning sensation and a lot of nasal discharge. The nasal passages may also become blocked or congested, making breathing and sleeping difficult. A person may want to constantly “spit up” the mucus to try to clear it. 

How can postnasal drip be treated and prevented? 

Postnasal drip can be relieved with medication that helps to reduce swelling in the nose by constricting its blood vessels. Pseudoephedrine, a main ingredient in many over-the-counter cold medications taken by mouth, relieves stuffiness and runny nose. Other medications include antihistamines, and nasal sprays. 

The newest technique in the management of postnasal drip and mucus in the throat is ClariFix.

How does ClariFix Cryotherapy work? 

The ClariFix Cryotherapy device goes straight to the source of the symptoms – the out-of-balance nerves. 

Using a minimally invasive treatment called ‘cryotherapy’, the ClariFix device interrupts the signals from these nerves to reduce your runny, stuffy nose symptoms. The procedure is done in the office under topical numbing medication. The device is introduced into the nose and activated for 30 seconds. 

When the cold temperature hits the out-of-balance nerves, the nerve signals are temporarily interrupted. The nerves are no longer telling the nose to drip, run and swell. The patient can return to normal activity the same day with hardly any restrictions.