Cough caused by post-nasal drip

Mucus from the nose or sinuses can run down the back of the throat and irritate sensitive tissues. People may notice a tickle, frequent throat clearing, hoarseness, a blocked or runny nose, or a cough that is worse when lying down. Allergic rhinitis and a common cold are frequent settings for this pattern. Acid reflux, asthma, bronchitis, and chronic cough can produce similar symptoms, so the pattern alone does not prove that drainage is the only cause.

Drink fluids, avoid smoke and strong fragrances, and consider saline nasal rinsing if it is suitable for you. Follow the instructions on any nasal spray or allergy medicine and check with a pharmacist if you have other conditions or take regular medicines. Elevating your head slightly at night may reduce throat irritation. Arrange review if the cough persists, disrupts sleep, or returns repeatedly.

Seek urgent care for difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing blood, facial swelling, severe dehydration, confusion, or rapidly worsening illness. Contact a clinician promptly for a high fever, severe facial pain, wheezing, or a cough that is not improving. Children, older adults, and people with lung disease may need earlier advice.

Ask whether allergies, infection, reflux, asthma, or another cause best fits your symptoms. Describe nasal discharge, triggers, night-time changes, wheeze, heartburn, medicines, and the length of the cough. Ask how to use any spray correctly and when to return for reassessment.