Mucus in Your Throat or Back of Your Nose? You May Have a Post Nasal Drip!

Understanding Post Nasal Drip: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Post-nasal drip (PND) refers to the feeling of mucus (secretions) dripping from the back of the nose or accumulating in the throat. It can be a nuisance, causing discomfort and even affecting your sleep. But what exactly is post-nasal drip, and what causes it?

What is Post Nasal Drip?

Many people are unaware that our noses and sinuses produce about 1-2 litres of mucus every day! The majority of the mucus flows down our throat seamlessly, and we swallow most of it without being aware of its presence. However, when there is an overproduction of mucus or the consistency of the mucus changes, a person may experience post-nasal drip. This can lead to a feeling of mucus constantly dripping down the back of your throat, often accompanied by the urge to clear your throat.

What Causes Post Nasal Drip?

There are several factors contributing to post-nasal drip:

1. Sensitive nose (Rhinitis)

Rhinitis, whether allergic or non-allergic, can cause inflammation and increase mucus production in the nasal passages.

• Allergic rhinitis: This occurs when your immune system overreacts to allergens like dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mould. This reaction triggers the release of histamines, which cause inflammation and increased mucus production.
• Non-allergic rhinitis: This type of rhinitis is not caused by allergies but can be triggered by irritants such as smoke, strong odours, changes in weather, certain medications, and spicy foods.

2. Sinusitis

Sinus infections can lead to inflammation and excess mucus, contributing to post-nasal drip. Sinusitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. The sinuses are air-filled cavities in the skull that are lined with a thin membrane that produces mucus. When these membranes become inflamed, they produce more mucus, which can lead to post-nasal drip.

3. Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)

While not technically post-nasal drip, acid reflux can cause a similar sensation of mucus in the throat. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) occurs when stomach acid travels up the oesophagus and reaches the back of the throat, causing irritation and a feeling of something stuck in the throat. This is often mistaken for post-nasal drip.

4. Dehydration

Insufficient fluid intake can thicken mucus, making it harder to drain. When you’re dehydrated, your body tries to conserve water, which can lead to thicker mucus.

5. Medications

Certain medications, such as those for blood pressure and birth control, can contribute to post-nasal drip as a side effect.

Why is Post Nasal Drip a Concern?

Post-nasal drip can be more than just an irritating symptom. It can irritate the voicebox (larynx), leading to:

• Post-nasal drip cough: A persistent cough, often worse at night, is a common symptom of post-nasal drip. This cough is triggered by the sensation of mucus dripping down the back of the throat.
• Globus sensation: A feeling of something stuck in the throat, even when nothing is there. This sensation is often caused by the thickened mucus irritating the throat.
• Sore throat: The constant irritation from dripping mucus can cause a sore throat.
• Hoarseness: Inflammation of the vocal cords due to post-nasal drip can lead to hoarseness.
• Phlegm stuck in throat: Thick mucus can create a sensation of phlegm stuck in the throat for months, even if it’s not actually present for that duration.

Furthermore, post-nasal drip can contribute to lung inflammation and worsen conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD).

How is Post Nasal Drip Treated?

The post-nasal drip treatment depends on the underlying cause. Addressing the root cause, such as treating allergies or sinusitis, is advisable.

For more information on specific causes and their treatment, refer to these resources:

1. Sensitive nose: https://drganent.com/blog/sensitive-nose-rhinitis/
2. Sinusitis: https://drganent.com/blog/sinus-and-sinusitis-what-is-the-difference/
3. Laryngopharyngeal reflux: https://doctorxdentist.com/really-causes-sore-throat-eat-much-heaty-food/

General Measures to Manage Post Nasal Drip

In addition to addressing the underlying cause, these measures can help alleviate post-nasal drip:

1. Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help thin the mucus (a general recommendation is at least 8 glasses/day. However, this is not evidence-based).
2. Avoid irritants: Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke, dust, and other irritants.
3. Nasal irrigation: Use a nasal douche or saline spray to help rinse the nasal passages and clear mucus. This can help remove irritants and allergens from the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and mucus production.
4. Mucus thinners: Over-the-counter medications containing guaifenesin can help thin mucus. These medications work by breaking down the bonds that hold mucus together, making it easier to cough up or swallow.

If you’re experiencing post-nasal drip, phlegm stuck in your throat, or a post-nasal drip cough, consult an ENT Specialist for proper diagnosis and post-nasal drip treatment. They can help identify the underlying cause and recommend the most helpful management strategy.

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