A post-nasal drip describes a condition where excessive mucus drips down the back of your throat. It is often due to allergies, sinus infections, and nasal infections like the common cold. Dr. Cecil Yeung Houston conducts thorough tests before developing a suitable treatment plan for chronic or recurring cases. Read on and explore post-nasal drip causes and when to see a doctor.
What is a post-nasal drip?
The body produces mucus to trap foreign particles by moistening the air you breathe. The fluid also fights bacteria and viruses in the nasal passages before they can cause infections.
It is normal for mucus to run through your nasal passages without you noticing. However, infection or foreign objects can make the fluid thicker and increase its production.
A runny nose differs from a post-nasal drip in that mucus runs down the nostril. With a postnasal drip, the mucus drips down the back of your throat.
Post nasal drip, causes, and related conditions
Postnasal drip could be the result of flu, allergies, or atmospheric changes. But it may indicate underlying health conditions.
Other causes of postnasal drip include:
- Sinus infections: Also known as sinusitis, it is a condition that inflames or infects the nasal passages. Acute sinusitis may occur after a viral infection or from allergies and often disappears within four weeks. Acute recurrent sinusitis and chronic sinusitis last longer with severe symptoms that can impact your quality of life.
- Deviated septum: Refers to a deformity of the nasal septum, the thin wall dividing the nasal passages. A post-nasal drip is one of the symptoms of a deviated septum. In severe cases, the anomalies can obstruct airflow, making breathing challenging. If untreated, a deviated septum may cause a dry mouth due to chronic mouth breathing.
- Medication side effects: Postnasal drip may occur as a side effect of birth control or blood pressure drugs. The symptoms are usually more intense when you start taking the prescription. But the postnasal drip diminishes the more you take the medication. However, your doctor can review the medication and offer alternatives where possible.
- GERD and acid reflux: GERD is a condition that causes the body to regurgitate the acid in the stomach back into the esophagus. The acid can irritate tissues in the nose and mouth cavity, causing a post-nasal drip. A sore throat and persistent coughing are common symptoms due to irritation and inflammation.
- Hormonal changes: You may experience a post-nasal drip when your hormone levels change considerably. That can happen during pregnancy or menopause. Hormone therapy is necessary If hormone fluctuations cause chronic or recurring sinusitis.
When to see a doctor
You can manage post-nasal drip at home with humidifiers or a nasal spray. Moistening the nasal passages reduces irritation and the risk of inflammation. However, it is advisable to see a doctor if the symptoms persist for more than ten days.
Symptoms like thick, discolored, or foul-smelling mucus may indicate an allergy or an underlying problem. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing complications, especially for patients with GERD and sinusitis.
Your provider will run thorough tests before crafting to determine the best therapeutic modality for your case. A customized plan is the best long-term solution for managing postnasal drip symptoms and improving your quality of life.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Yeung, contact Houston Sinus Surgery today.
