Each day, the glands in your nose, throat, digestive system and airways produce between 1 and 2 quarts of mucus. When your body is working in balance, you probably don’t give that a second thought, and the mucus drains naturally down your throat with saliva. When conditions like sinus infections cause your body to make more or thicker mucus, however, you often notice the excess as postnasal drip—an aggravating sensation of liquid moving in the back of your throat. When this occurs, it is important to understand the causes of sinusitis and receive a proper diagnosis.
Symptoms of postnasal drip include:
- The constant feeling that you need to clear your throat
- Irritation in your neck
- Coughing (triggered by the irritation)
- Sore throat
- Hoarseness
Dealing with the source of your postnasal drip—whether it’s a sinus infection, acid reflux, or otherwise—is the best way to go. Your doctor can diagnose the actual cause, which may be a surprising one. At the Sinus Center, our doctors have even diagnosed causes of sinusitis from an infected tooth.
Common treatment options often include:
- Mucus-thinning medication
- Antibiotics (if needed for the underlying ailment)
- Using a humidifier at home
- Sleeping slightly propped up by pillows
- Drinking plenty of fluids (such as water or caffeine-free herbal teas)
- Dietary changes
For treatment recommendations specific to your symptoms, just call our office anytime. When it sets in, postnasal drip can become a lingering burden, so it’s best to seek advice early on.
Sources: WebMD
Frequently Asked Questions
Postnasal drip in sinusitis occurs when your body produces excess or thicker mucus due to sinus infections or other conditions. This excess mucus drips down the back of the throat, causing irritation and discomfort.
Symptoms of postnasal drip include a constant need to clear your throat, neck irritation, coughing triggered by the irritation, sore throat, and hoarseness. These signs indicate that mucus is accumulating and causing discomfort in the throat area.
Using a humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help thin mucus and soothe irritated nasal and throat tissues. This relief can reduce the severity of symptoms associated with sinusitis and postnasal drip.
Treatment options include mucus-thinning medications, antibiotics if an infection is present, using a humidifier, sleeping with the head elevated, drinking plenty of fluids, and making dietary changes. These approaches help address both symptoms and underlying causes.
Yes, sinus infections can sometimes stem from less obvious sources such as dental infections. For example, an infected tooth can lead to sinusitis, highlighting the importance of a thorough medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis.
Seeing a doctor is vital to determining the actual cause of postnasal drip, which might be sinusitis, acid reflux, or another condition. Proper diagnosis ensures that you receive the appropriate treatment to relieve and resolve symptoms effectively.
Lifestyle changes such as sleeping with your head elevated, staying well-hydrated with water or caffeine-free herbal teas, and modifying your diet can ease postnasal drip symptoms. These adjustments help reduce mucus buildup and throat irritation.