Post Nasal Drip

Post Nasal Drip

Post nasal drip may be defined as the backward flow of mucus from the posterior nares (nasal passages) down the back of the throat and into the stomach.
This mucus is usually clear and stringy, however may be off coloured (yellow or green) when an infection is present.

Causes of Post Nasal Drip

• Increased intake of dairy and dairy containing products
• Allergic rhinitis (Hayfever)
• Common, everyday allergies
• Deviated nasal septum
• GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disorder)
• Throat and swallowing disorders. These are most common during old age and due to normal usage over many years.
• Untreated colds and flu
• Change in temperature
• Certain medications such as contraceptives and those for high blood pressure. Please consult with your Doctor or GP of any side effects which may occur with certain medications.
• Bananas
• Hot or spicy foods
• Dairy and dairy containing products
• Polluted environments
• Swallowing or throat disorders
• Sinusitis
• Wheat
• Hormonal changes especially those during pregnancy and menopause
• Stimulants such as products containing caffeine or tobacco can stimulate the production of mucus.

Symptoms of Post Nasal Drip

• Hawking up of clear or coloured mucus from the throat.
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Foul or unpleasant taste at the back of the throat
• Sore throat
• Blocking and unblocking one or both nasal passages

Complications of untreated Post Nasal Drip

Untreated post nasal drip may lead to bronchitis or pneumonia and can severely affect those suffering with asthma.

Why does Post Nasal Drip lead to coughing?

Whilst sleeping, a person usually lies on his or her back (supine). This position makes it difficult for mucus to be effectively removed from the nasal passages and sinus cavities and will converge in pools around the airways and vocal cords, resulting in an irritation or inflammation. It is this irritation that can lead to the development of a sore or hoarse throat, loss of voice or coughing.

Self help tips

1. Nasal irrigation – This technique can be preformed using a netti pot or nasal douche. A warm saline solution with no preservatives should be used to help drain any excess mucus thereby preventing this from becoming thick and trapped in the sinus cavities.
2. Ensure you eat a well balanced diet full or vitamins and minerals.