Sometimes, it’s the conditions that cause you the smallest amount of discomfort that are the most frustrating. 

Post-nasal drip is a prime example – it’s not the kind of thing you’re going to call in sick about, but dealing with a sore, claggy throat for days on end is enough to get on your last nerve.

If you’ve ever spent a week or two with the constant need to clear your throat, then you’ll know what we’re talking about. 

Caused by excess mucus from the nose gathering at the back of your throat, post-nasal drip can transform a good day into 24 hours of bubbling rage.

Unfortunately, post-nasal drip is one of those things that just crop up from time to time for a variety of reasons. However, there are ways to relieve this frustrating condition – and they’re pretty simple. 

According to Dr Harriet Leyland, clinical advisor at myGP, there are five main causes of post-nasal drip. Some are related to specific conditions, whereas others are environmental.

1. Colds and allergies

Because your body produces extra mucus when you have a cold or allergies, this extra mucus can drip down the back of your throat – causing irritation.

2. Sinus infections

In a similar way, sinus infections can also lead to increased mucus production, which again can drip down the back of your throat, triggering symptoms.

3. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD)

GORD is a condition where stomach acid can flow up from the stomach into the throat, causing irritation and excess mucus production which, you guessed it, can cause that dripping problem.

4. Weather changes

Our mucus production also fluctuates depending on our environment; dry air, cold weather or sudden temperature changes can all lead to an increase which can produce post-nasal drip.

5. Certain medications

Medications that lead to increased mucus production can also lead to post-nasal drip. These include some blood pressure medications, as well as birth control pills. 

The main symptoms of post-nasal drip are pretty much what you would expect from having excess mucus in the back of your throat. Leyland highlights the following five as the most common:

• A feeling of a lump in the throat or a sensation that something is stuck at the back of your throat
• The need to clear your throat often
• A persistent, irritating cough that’s worse at night
• A sore throat due to the irritation caused by the mucus
• A hoarse, rough or raspy voice 

While you probably won’t be able to get rid of your post-nasal drip completely, these tips will help to relieve your symptoms and discomfort.

1. Stay hydrated

“Drinking plenty of fluids can help to thin the mucus and make it easier to clear,” Leyland says.

This means you’ll be less likely to experience irritation due to mucus getting stuck in the back of the throat, therefore relieving symptoms.

2. Do a saline nasal rinse

A saline nasal rinse may be slightly more invasive, but it can really help to clear the nasal passage and remove excess mucus and irritants.

3. Humidify the air

Because dry air can trigger excess mucus production, using a humidifier to keep the air moist can stop symptoms from emerging in the first place.

4. Avoid irritants

“Where possible stay away from smoke, strong odours and other irritants that can trigger more mucus production,” Leyland recommends.

5. Use over-the-counter medications

If your post-nasal drip is being triggered by an allergy, then an antihistamine might help. “Decongestants can also help to reduce mucus production and relieve symptoms,” Leyland adds.

6. Elevate your head

If your post-nasal drip gets particularly bad at night, it might be because of the way you’re sleeping. Leyland recommends sleeping with your head slightly elevated (perhaps using two pillows instead of one) to prevent mucus from pooling in your throat overnight.

Most people with post-nasal drip will be able to manage their symptoms on their own, but there are some circumstances when you should consider seeing a doctor.

These include situations when:

• Your symptoms are severe or persistent
• You have blood in your mucus
• You have trouble swallowing or breathing
• You develop a high fever
• Over-the-counter medications don’t provide relief
• Your post-nasal drip is accompanied by other concerning symptoms 

Images: Getty