What should you know about cough because of post nasal drip?

Post nasal drip can trigger coughing when mucus moves from the nose into the throat and irritates its lining. You may feel a need to clear your throat, notice a tickle, or cough more when lying down. The drainage itself can have several causes, so treatment depends on the wider symptom pattern.

Allergic Rhinitis can increase nasal secretions and congestion. A Common Cold may cause temporary drainage, while Acid Reflux can create a throat sensation that feels similar to mucus. Acute Bronchitis, Asthma, and other airway conditions can also cause cough, so post nasal drip should not be assumed to explain every persistent cough. A cough lasting or recurring over time may be Chronic Cough and merits assessment.

Drink water, avoid smoke and perfume, and consider saline nasal rinsing if a clinician or pharmacist confirms it is suitable and explains safe preparation. Follow the product instructions for any nasal spray. Elevating the head slightly during sleep may reduce night-time throat irritation for some people. Record congestion, sneezing, heartburn, wheeze, and the times the cough is strongest.

Book medical advice if drainage and cough continue, keep disturbing sleep, recur often, or come with fever, facial swelling, severe facial pain, wheezing, or breathlessness. Seek urgent care for severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, confusion, fainting, or chest pain. A clinician may examine the nose, throat, and chest and review medicines and environmental triggers.

Ask whether nasal inflammation, reflux, asthma, or infection could be contributing, and which nasal treatment is appropriate. Explain whether mucus is clear or coloured, whether symptoms worsen lying down, and whether you have seasonal or indoor triggers.