How to get rid of post-nasal drip

Post-nasal drip is the sensation of mucus moving from the back of the nose into the throat. It may cause throat clearing, a tickle, hoarseness, cough or a need to swallow often. Allergic rhinitis and the common cold can increase nasal mucus. Acid reflux can irritate the throat without obvious heartburn. Asthma and other airway conditions can also cause cough, so mucus sensation should not be treated as proof of one cause. The colour or thickness of mucus alone does not establish whether an infection is present.

Drink fluids regularly and use saline nasal spray or a suitable rinse to clear mucus and allergens. Follow the product instructions and use safe, clean water for nasal rinsing. Reduce exposure to smoke, dust and strong scents, and keep bedroom air comfortably humid without allowing mould to grow. If symptoms follow seasonal exposure, discuss allergy treatment with a pharmacist or clinician. Raise the head of the bed if reflux is suspected and avoid lying down soon after meals. A persistent cough needs a clinical assessment rather than repeated cough remedies.

Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, chest pain, coughing blood, confusion or sudden swelling of the throat. Arrange a medical review for a cough that persists, recurrent wheezing, fever that does not settle, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or frequent chest infections. Conditions such as [Asthma](/conditions/asthma/), [Acute Bronchitis](/conditions/acute-bronchitis/) and [Chronic Cough](/conditions/chronic-cough/) may need different evaluation and treatment.

Is the drainage more consistent with allergy, infection, reflux or an airway problem? Which nasal treatment is suitable, and when should my cough be investigated?