The sensation of mucus dripping into your throat can be distracting or irritating and may cause other problems, including a sore throat and difficulty swallowing. At the state-of-the-art Houston Sinus Surgery center, Cecil Yeung, MD and his team believe that effective treatment of post-nasal drip starts with an accurate diagnosis.
If you live in the Houston area and you’re ready to end your drip, call at his helpful staff or book your appointment online.
Post Nasal Drip Q & A
What is post-nasal drip?
Special glands in your nose and throat continually produce about 1-2 quarts of mucus per day to protect and lubricate your nasal membranes. Mucus traps pathogens such as viruses and bacteria, and irritants such as dust and pollen.
Normally, the mucus drains from your nose and throat in small enough amounts that you swallow it without noticing. When you produce too much mucus, you can feel the mucus dripping into or accumulating at the back of your throat, a condition known as post-nasal drip.
How did I get post-nasal drip?
Your post-nasal drip may be composed of either thin or thick secretion. Excessive thin secretions may be caused by:
- Colds and flu
- Allergies or irritants
- Cold or changing temperatures
- Bright lights
- Food and spice triggers
- Hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy
- Certain medications
- Nasal abnormalities, including deviated septum
Excessive thick secretions may be caused by:
- Sinus or nose infections (e.g., sinusitis), especially if a discharge is yellow or green
- Environmental allergies
- Food allergies, including dairy allergies
- Foreign object (particularly in children)
What are some symptoms of post-nasal drip?
In addition to the unpleasant sensation of increased nasal drainage, you may experience:
- Coughing (may worsen at night)
- Sore throat
- Scratchy or dry throat
- Constant throat clearing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Sinus pressure
- Sinus headache
- Nasal congestion (stuffy nose)
How can I treat post-nasal drip at home?
If your child has the symptoms of post-nasal drip, you should see Dr. Yeung right away to clear any possible foreign objects and get an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Conservative, over-the-counter (OTC) remedies for adults include decongestants (for short-term use only), antihistamines, and nasal sprays.
How does an ENT treat post-nasal drip?
When your symptoms are bothersome, interfere with your sleep or quality of life, and don’t respond to OTC treatments, Dr. Yeung performs a thorough examination to determine the cause of your post-nasal drip.
Based on his findings, he tailors an individual treatment regimen for you that addresses any underlying issues, reduces symptoms, and provides long-term or permanent relief.
If post-nasal drip affects you, call at Dr. Yeung’s helpful staff to set up a consultation or book one online.
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