Dry cough from post-nasal drip: what should you know?

You may feel mucus at the back of the throat, frequent throat-clearing, a blocked or runny nose, hoarseness, or a cough that is worse at night. Allergic rhinitis can produce clear drainage after exposure to pollen, dust, or animals. A common cold can cause temporary nasal inflammation. Acid reflux can feel similar because it irritates the throat without being nasal drainage. Asthma should be considered when cough comes with wheeze, chest tightness, or exercise-related breathing difficulty.

Drink water, avoid smoke and known triggers, and consider a saline nasal rinse or spray using the product as directed. Wash hands and avoid sharing rinse equipment. Elevating the head slightly during sleep may reduce nighttime throat irritation. A pharmacist or clinician can help choose an allergy or nasal treatment based on your symptoms, pregnancy status, blood pressure, and other medicines. Do not assume every throat tickle is post-nasal drip.

Get urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, coughing blood, facial or throat swelling, or sudden deterioration. Arrange medical review if drainage or cough persists, repeatedly disturbs sleep, causes fever or facial pain, or returns often. Prompt assessment is sensible when wheeze, shortness of breath, or a significant change in sputum develops.

Does the examination suggest nasal drainage, reflux, or an airway cause? Which nasal treatment fits my health history? How should I use a saline rinse safely?