Postnasal drip is a condition where excess mucus from the nose or sinuses accumulates and drips down the back of the throat. This can create a sensation of mucus drainage, causing symptoms like a sore throat, frequent swallowing, throat clearing, coughing, hoarseness, and sometimes nausea. The mucus may feel thick or irritating, causing discomfort or the feeling of a lump in the throat. Common causes of postnasal drip include allergies (often called allergic postnasal drip), viral infections like colds and flu, sinus infections, dry air or weather changes, irritants such as pollution or smoke, certain foods like spicy foods, structural issues like a deviated septum, and conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Sometimes it accompanies inflammation of the nasal passages (rhinitis) or sinusitis. Treatment usually depends on the underlying cause but can involve staying hydrated, using humidifiers, drinking warm liquids, and possibly over-the- counter medications to relieve symptoms. If postnasal drip is persistent, severe, or associated with other symptoms, medical advice should be sought for further evaluation and management.
Symptoms of Postnasal Drip
- Feeling of mucus draining into the throat
- Sore throat
- Frequent swallowing and throat clearing
- Persistent cough, often worse at night
- Hoarseness or change in voice
- Lump sensation in the throat
- Bad breath
- Nausea from mucus drainage into the stomach
Common Causes
- Allergies (dust, pollen, pet dander)
- Colds and flu viruses
- Sinus infections (sinusitis)
- Dry air and weather changes
- Irritants like smoke, perfumes, and pollution
- Structural nasal problems like deviated septum
- Certain foods (spicy foods)
- GERD or acid reflux
General Remedies
- Use a humidifier to moisten air and thin mucus
- Drink warm fluids for soothing and thinning mucus
- Stay well hydrated
- Elevate the head while sleeping to promote drainage
- Over-the-counter cold and allergy medicines may help
Persistent or severe cases warrant consultation with a healthcare provider to identify and treat specific causes.