Billy:
I used the salt and baking soda as well. Mixed it a gallon jug at a time (with a tablespoon each of salt and baking soda) and kept it close at hand. For a while I couldn't swallow at all, but I forced myself to swish and spit this mixture. Also, I started using a humidifier about this time as well. I feel it really helped with the dryness in my mouth at night, and might have been more mental than anything, but I think it help the mucous (coupled with keeping my head propped up on three pillows or sleeping in a recliner). I used the humidifier up until about a month ago when it finally croaked and I just went on without one at that point. There's really no easy answer or fix for the mucous situation, you just try to experiment and find the best combination that will help you be as comfortable as possible.
I Also fought not using pain killers. Prior to being diagnosed I was living on Ibuprofen 800mg. at a time just like you, and prior to that I was hard pressed to take an aspirin! Once diagnosed and through surgery I was on different things. When I had to fight the battle again my Oncologist started me on the patch (fentanyl)and it was the best thing I was given throughout my journey. They can lower the dose if it's making you feel weird, but it really delivers a more consistent relief if you can tolerate it.
I used Milk of Magnesia through my tube (It burnt to bad orally) for the constipation which worked better for me than the Senakot and other things the Dr.'s suggested. Hope this information helps. Hang in there as it gets better (even though it's not any fun for a quite some time)

Best Wishes,
Steve