Common cold and post-nasal drip

Post-nasal drip during a common cold happens when mucus from an inflamed nose drains into the throat and may trigger throat clearing or cough. You may notice a tickle, a feeling of mucus at the back of the throat, hoarseness, or a cough that is worse when lying down. It can occur with a blocked or runny nose.

A cold irritates the lining of the nose, which can increase mucus and make it thicker. Drainage can irritate the throat without meaning that the infection has moved into the lungs. A cough lasting beyond the rest of the cold, wheezing, or chest pain needs a separate assessment. [Acute Bronchitis](/conditions/acute-bronchitis/) is one condition a clinician may consider when cough becomes the main problem.

Drink fluids regularly and consider warm drinks to soothe the throat. Saline nasal drops or a saline rinse may help clear mucus when used as directed. Sleep with your head comfortably raised if lying flat worsens the drip. Avoid smoke and strong fragrances. A pharmacist can advise on a suitable remedy after checking your age, pregnancy status, medical history and current medicines.

Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, chest pain, blue or grey lips, confusion, or coughing blood. Arrange medical advice for severe facial pain, swelling around an eye, dehydration, a persistent high fever, or a cough that is worsening rather than settling. Ear pain or reduced hearing may need assessment for [Middle Ear Infection](/conditions/middle-ear-infection/).

Could nasal inflammation explain my throat clearing? Which saline product or medicine is appropriate for me? What would distinguish a lingering cold cough from a chest condition?