Postnasal drip occurs when your throat becomes clogged with more mucus than usual and starts to drip down the back of your throat. You might experience a tickling sensation in the back of your throat. A chronic cough may develop as a result of postnasal drip. Your throat and nose have glands that are constantly producing mucus which causes this drip.

Overview and Symptoms

Nasal drainage, also referred to as postnasal drip, happens when mucus secretions flow down your throat. These secretions are frequently thicker than usual, which makes you aware of the extra mucus draining down your throat.

• The sensation that mucus is entering your throat
• Continuous swallowing
• Sinus headache
• Sounding hoarse or gurgling
• Urge to clear your throat
• Tingling sensation in the back of your throat
• Bad breath
• Coughing fits at night
• Vomiting and nausea brought on by excess mucus draining to your stomach
  

Why does postnasal drip occur?

• Flu and colds
• Bacterial illnesses
• Sinus Infections
• Changing weather, colder weather
• Pregnancy
• Spicy foods
• Acid reflux or GERD

Home Remedies

• Drink warm fluids
• Take a hot shower or bath
• Rinse out your sinuses
• Try a humidifier
• Gargle salt water

How can postnasal drip be prevented?

• Remain hydrated. Regular fluid intake helps to thin mucus.
• Apply a humidifier. Additional moisture in your bathroom, office or bedroom can improve breathing and lessen nasal congestion.
• While you sleep, support yourself. By putting additional pillows under your head, you can prevent mucus from building up in the back of your throat.
• Steer clear of carbonated drinks and spicy foods that contribute to GERD.

The balloon sinuplasty procedure, as offered by the American Sinus Institute, may be helpful when postnasal drip symptoms are severe and none of the previously stated treatments are effective in providing relief or resolving the health issue. AmericanSinus Institute specializes in balloon sinuplasty, serving patients in San Antonio and across Texas. Contact our board-certified physicians in Otolaryngology to learn how balloon sinuplasty can help relieve your sinus problems and deviated septum.