Your body produces\nmucus constantly throughout the day \u2013 one to two quarts, to be exact. It mixes\nwith saliva and is swallowed, a normal and harmless response that you usually\ndon\u2019t notice. When excess mucus is created or it is thicker than usual, it\nbecomes noticeable as it runs down the back of the nose to the throat. This is\nknown as postnasal drip. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
An excess of mucus\ncan be caused by a variety of factors. These include colds, flu, allergies,\nsinus infections, cold temperatures, bright lights, certain foods, hormonal\nchanges (including pregnancy), fumes from chemicals or perfumes, certain types\nof medications and structural abnormalities such as a deviated septum. The\ncondition might not even be the result of too much mucus, but rather, the\ninability to clear it away effectively \u2013 the result of a swallowing disorder. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The primary symptom\nof postnasal drip is a sore and irritated throat. Although there is typically\nno infection accompanying postnasal drip, tissues in the throat may swell. Postnasal\ndrip can cause a number of side effects including cough, sore throat,\nhoarseness, ear and sinus infections. It is the most common cause of chronic\ncoughing, which can be especially bothersome at night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Treatment for\npostnasal drip depends on the cause. Over-the-counter medications \u2013\nantihistamines, decongestants and saline nasal sprays \u2013 are often used\nsuccessfully to manage symptoms. Drugs containing the mucus-thinning agent\nguaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin, etc.) may prove helpful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can try irrigating the nasal passages\nusing a neti pot to get rid of excess mucus. Use of a humidifier to moisten the\nair can also help. If a bacterial infection is the cause, you\u2019ll need\nantibiotic treatment. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a frequent cause\nof swallowing problems, can be treated with antacids. <\/p>\n\n\n