What should you know about catarrh in the throat?

You may notice a sticky feeling, frequent throat clearing, cough, a blocked nose, or an unpleasant taste. Common contributors include a cold, nasal allergy, sinus inflammation, dry air, and irritation from smoke or dust. Reflux can also irritate the throat and create a mucus sensation without much nasal discharge.

The symptom itself does not identify one cause. Notice whether it follows exposure to an allergen, a cold, meals, lying down, or seasonal change. Persistent symptoms may fit [Postnasal Drip](/symptoms/postnasal-drip/) or another problem such as [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/) or [Sinusitis](/conditions/sinusitis/).

Drink fluids regularly, avoid smoke, and use a humidified environment if the air is dry. Saline nasal spray or a saline rinse may loosen mucus; use a properly prepared solution and clean equipment. Try not to forcefully clear your throat repeatedly, as this can add irritation. Treat a known allergy or reflux trigger according to professional advice.

A clinician can examine your nose and throat and decide whether symptoms fit [Chronic Sinusitis](/conditions/chronic-sinusitis/), [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/), or another cause. Do not start antibiotics just because mucus looks coloured.

Seek prompt medical care for trouble breathing or swallowing, drooling, swelling of the face or neck, severe one-sided facial pain, or a high fever with marked illness. Arrange a review when catarrh persists, keeps returning, causes a persistent cough, or comes with blood, unexplained weight loss, or a new voice change.

Ask what pattern your symptoms suggest, whether allergies or reflux could contribute, how to use a saline rinse safely, and whether you need an examination for sinus disease or a cough lasting several weeks.