Post-nasal drip, also called upper airway cough syndrome (UACS), is a common disorder. It can be caused by colds, allergies, acid reflux, and other conditions. Show
It happens when the amount or quality of the mucus that's typically produced in the airways has changed and is now causing irritation. Treatment for post-nasal drip depends on the cause of the condition. This article explains post-nasal drip and some common symptoms that occur. It looks at six possible causes of post-nasal drip and some ways your symptoms can be treated at home. What Is Post-Nasal Drip?Our bodies are constantly producing mucus, and not just in our airways. It's found in the digestive tract and other organs where glands produce mucin. Mucin is the substance that, along with water, makes up our mucus. In the airway, it traps germs and other debris to keep it out of the lungs. Mucus drains down the back of our throats all the time. It usually doesn't bother us, and most of the time we aren't aware of it. Post-nasal drip occurs when abnormally thin or thick mucus becomes noticeable. It causes the sensation of having a "drip" in the back of the throat, which also may come with the need to clear your throat often. You likely will also have a chronic cough. When treating post-nasal drip at home, you may need to vary your approach depending on whether the mucus is thick or thin. Try the tips below, based on the cause of your symptoms. Post-Nasal Drip Caused by AllergiesYou may notice post-nasal drip during hay fever (allergic rhinitis) season. Here are ways to treat post-nasal drip caused by allergies:
Post-Nasal Drip Caused by InfectionsPost-nasal drip can be caused by infections. They include the common cold, RSV, influenza, and sinusitis. It's important to see a healthcare provider to rule out the need for antibiotics, but at home you can try:
Post-Nasal Drip Caused by Acid RefluxGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or acid reflux, can cause post-nasal drip. GERD occurs when stomach acid comes back up into the esophagus. GERD is worse when you lie down because gravity makes it easier for acid to "backwash" into the esophagus and back of the throat. Stomach acid is very irritating to tissue outside of the stomach. This irritation is what causes the feeling of post-nasal drip. It can also cause a sore throat, laryngitis, and a persistent cough. If acid reflux persists, see a healthcare provider. To treat post-nasal drip caused by GERD at home:
Post-Nasal Drip Caused by MedicationsSome medications, such as birth control or blood pressure drugs, can cause post-nasal drip as a side effect. Many side effects will ease the longer that you take a medication. But it may be that the only way to avoid this side effect is by not taking the drug. That said, you should first talk to a healthcare provider before you stop taking any medication. You also should speak to your provider or a pharmacist about possible drug interactions. Don't take any medications for post-nasal drip, even over-the-counter or alternative products, without letting them know. At home, you can try:
Treating Post-Nasal Drip Caused by Structural (Anatomical) AbnormalitiesPost-nasal drip can be caused by your anatomy. Some people have structural abnormalities of the nose and sinuses. Symptoms typically last longer than a few weeks. In this case, you should see an ear, nose, and throat specialist (otolaryngologist) to find out if you need corrective surgery. Typical surgeries may include:
Your specialist also can talk to you about ways to manage your post-nasal drip at home if you are unable or unwilling to have surgery, or until the procedure can be done. Post-Nasal Drip Caused by HormonesChanges in your body's hormone levels also may be a cause of post-nasal drip. If you are pregnant, do not take any drugs to treat post-nasal drip without talking to your healthcare provider. At home, a pregnant person can safely manage the symptoms with:
If your hormonal changes are caused by menopause or another condition, you can use the home remedies discussed in this article. Do see your healthcare provider to talk about options such as hormone replacement therapy. SummaryPost-nasal drip is when changes in the amount or quality of mucus you feel in your throat become noticeable. It's often caused by things like the common cold or allergies, and it may come with a cough or other symptoms. You won't always need to see a healthcare provider to manage it, and you can try some of the home remedies discussed here. In some cases, though, the post-nasal drip may be a symptom associated with a more serious condition. GERD, or acid reflux, is one such example. A structural abnormality in your nose or a medication side effect also may cause symptoms. A healthcare provider can help you to find the cause of your post-nasal drip and get relief. A Word From Verywell Try not to be discouraged if you're
dealing with post-nasal drip. It's often unpleasant, and so are the symptoms that come with each specific cause. Treating your symptoms at home can go a long way toward helping you to feel better. Frequently Asked Questions
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By Kristin Hayes, RN Thanks for your feedback! How do you get rid of a cough caused by post nasal drip?Now what?. A humidifier or steam inhalation (as during a hot shower). Keeping well-hydrated (to keep the mucus thinner). Sleep on propped up pillows, to keep the mucus from collecting at the back of your throat.. Nasal irrigation (available over-the-counter). Does cough medicine help with post nasal drip cough?If allergies are causing postnasal drip cough, then over-the-counter medications containing antihistamines can help. If postnasal drip cough is caused by a cold, OTC cough medications can help with mucus production and coughing.
Which Mucinex is best for post nasal drip and cough?Try Maximum Strength Mucinex® D for relief. It contains pseudoephedrine HCl and guaifenesin, which may help you clear excess mucus and nasal congestion (as well as the resulting post-nasal drip).
What medicine stops post nasal drip?Decongestants decrease swelling in the nose, which may ease symptoms associated with postnasal drip, such as a runny nose. Examples of decongestants include: Mucinex. Sudafed.
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