Post Nasal Drip
Post nasal drip is extra mucus that runs down the back of the throat from the nose and sinuses. Post nasal drip causes throat clearing, a tickly cough, and a sore throat. It is very common and usually treatable.
What Is It
Common causes include colds, allergies, sinus infections, cold or dry air, and acid reflux. Some medicines and spicy foods can also increase mucus. Post nasal drip is one of the most common causes of a cough that lingers.
Symptoms
- Feeling of mucus in the back of the throat
- Frequent throat clearing
- A cough, often worse at night
- Sore or scratchy throat
- Hoarse voice
- Bad breath
Not sure what is causing it? Sneezing and itchy eyes with drainage may be seasonal allergies. Thick drainage with face pain lasting more than 10 days may be a sinus infection.
Treatment
At your visit: A provider examines your nose, throat, and ears to find the cause. Treatment may include saline rinses, nasal steroid sprays, antihistamines, or treatment for reflux. Antibiotics help only when there is a bacterial infection.
At home:
- Rinse your nose with saline spray or a sinus rinse
- Drink plenty of water to thin mucus
- Use a humidifier at night
- Sleep with your head raised
Post nasal drip from a cold usually clears within 1 to 2 weeks.
When to Get Care for Post Nasal Drip
Most post nasal drip symptoms can be cared for at home. If you are not sure what it is, or it is not getting better, Vitality Urgent Care is here to answer your questions and advise the right treatment. No appointment is needed.
FAQ
How do you stop post nasal drip?
Post nasal drip often improves with saline rinses, extra fluids, a humidifier, and treating the cause, such as allergies or a sinus infection.
What causes post nasal drip?
Post nasal drip is caused by colds, allergies, sinus infections, dry or cold air, and acid reflux. Some medicines and spicy foods can also cause it.
Why is post nasal drip worse at night?
Post nasal drip is often worse at night because mucus collects in the throat when you lie flat. Sleeping with your head raised can help.
Can post nasal drip cause a cough?
Yes, post nasal drip is one of the most common causes of a lingering cough. The mucus irritates the throat and triggers coughing, especially at night.
Can urgent care treat post nasal drip?
Yes, urgent care can treat post nasal drip. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine your nose and throat and look for the cause. No appointment or referral is needed.
How long does post nasal drip last?
Post nasal drip from a cold usually lasts 1 to 2 weeks. Drainage from allergies or reflux can last until the cause is treated.
Last reviewed October 2026
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