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Why Won't My Postnasal Drip Stop? An ENT in Gangnam, Seoul Explains

Answered by Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD · Board-certified otolaryngologist · Former professor, Yonsei & Ajou University · Consultations in English

The answer: something keeps producing or thickening mucus

Postnasal drip is the feeling of mucus running down the back of the nose into the throat. Your nose and sinuses make mucus all day, and normally you swallow it without noticing. You become aware of it when there is too much, when it is too thick, or when the throat is extra sensitive.

Common reasons it persists

• Allergic rhinitis: dust mites, pollen, or pets cause watery or sticky mucus, often with sneezing.
• Vasomotor rhinitis: a non-allergic sensitivity to cold air, spicy food, temperature changes, or strong smells.
• Chronic sinusitis: thick, discolored mucus draining from inflamed sinuses, sometimes with a bad taste or smell.
• Nasal polyps that block drainage.
• Laryngopharyngeal reflux: stomach contents irritating the throat cause a sensation of mucus and frequent throat clearing, even with a normal nose.
• Dry air: Seoul's dry winters and air conditioning thicken mucus.
• Medications: some blood pressure drugs and hormonal medicines can increase nasal secretions.

Symptoms that often come with it

• Constant throat clearing or a "lump" sensation
• Cough, especially at night or on waking
• Hoarseness or a scratchy voice
• Bad breath
• Nausea from swallowed mucus in the morning

Things you can try

• Saline nasal irrigation once or twice a day
• Drinking enough water and humidifying your bedroom
• Raising the head of your bed if symptoms worsen at night
• Avoiding late meals, alcohol, and caffeine if reflux is suspected
• Limiting throat clearing, which irritates the throat further; try sipping water instead

What we do at Gangnam Yonsei ENT

Because the nose and throat are both involved, an ENT examination is particularly useful. Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, a former Ajou University assistant professor specializing in rhinology who treats the full range of ENT conditions, uses a nasal endoscopy to look for inflammation, pus, or polyps, and a laryngoscopy to check the throat and voice box for signs of reflux irritation.

An allergy test helps when allergic rhinitis is suspected, and a CT scan when chronic sinusitis is likely. Treatment is then matched to the cause: steroid or antihistamine sprays for rhinitis, sinus treatment for infection, or reflux medication with lifestyle changes when the throat is the source. Many people have more than one contributor, and treating only one may give partial relief.

When to see a doctor promptly

See an ENT if postnasal drip lasts more than a few weeks, if mucus is bloody, if it comes from only one side with a foul smell, or if you have trouble swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or a persistent hoarse voice, particularly if you smoke.

English consultations are available near Gangnam-gu Office Station; see location and hours. Related: why you are always clearing your throat and how to rinse your nose safely.

Related questions

Can postnasal drip cause a chronic cough?

Yes. Postnasal drip is one of the most common causes of a cough lasting more than eight weeks, along with asthma and reflux. Treating the nasal source often settles the cough, but an examination is needed to confirm the cause.

Why is postnasal drip worse at night?

Lying flat lets mucus pool at the back of the throat instead of being swallowed, and reflux is also more likely when lying down. Raising your head and rinsing your nose before bed often helps.

Do antihistamines help postnasal drip?

They help when allergies are the cause and can dry watery secretions. For thick mucus from sinusitis or non-allergic rhinitis, they may not help much and can even thicken mucus. A correct diagnosis guides the right medication.

This answer is general medical information written and reviewed by an ENT specialist. It is not a diagnosis. Please see a doctor for an examination. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.