Your body produces mucus constantly throughout the day – one to two quarts, to be exact. It mixes with saliva and is swallowed, a normal and harmless response that you usually don’t notice. When excess mucus is created or it is thicker than usual, it becomes noticeable as it runs down the back of the nose to the throat. This is known as postnasal drip.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of postnasal drip is a sore and irritated throat. Although there is typically no infection accompanying postnasal drip, tissues in the throat may swell. Postnasal drip can cause a number of side effects including cough, sore throat, hoarseness, ear, and sinus infections. It is the most common cause of chronic coughing, which can be especially bothersome at night.
Treatment
Treatment for postnasal drip depends on the cause. Over-the-counter medications – antihistamines, decongestants, and saline nasal sprays – are often used successfully to manage symptoms. Drugs containing the mucus-thinning agent guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin, etc.) may prove helpful. You can try irrigating the nasal passages using a neti pot to get rid of excess mucus. The use of a humidifier to moisten the air can also help. If a bacterial infection is the cause, you’ll need antibiotic treatment. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a frequent cause of swallowing problems, can be treated with antacids.
