What Causes Post-Nasal Drip?

Did you know that you produce nearly two quarts of mucus every day? If you’re like most healthy people, you swallow mucus every few seconds without ever noticing. Unfortunately, that can all change once you get sick.

What is a Post-Nasal Drip?

Unlike regular nasal drip (where mucus falls out of your nose), post-nasal drip mucus falls down the back of the throat. This causes a tickling and/or irritating sensation in the back of your throat, which people often try to cough up. 

What Causes Post-Nasal Drip

Because it’s such a common symptom, there are over a dozen different causes for post-nasal drip. Some of the most common causes are:

• Sinusitis (a sinus infection)
• The common cold
• The flu
• A number of different viruses
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease 

Other uncommon causes of post-nasal drip include blockages in the nasal passage, reactions to certain medications, pregnancy, weather conditions, and even spicy foods.

Natural Treatments

When caused by common and minor conditions like allergies, the cold, the flu, or sinus issues, the nasal drip can be treated without medication. These simple treatments include:

• Gargling a saltwater mixture
• Nasal sprays
• Sleeping with your head elevated
• Drinking warm liquids, like soup or tea 

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