Heartburn and post-nasal drip

Post-nasal drip is mucus moving from the nose or sinuses towards the throat. It can cause throat clearing, a blocked nose, cough, or a sensation of mucus. Reflux can cause burning, sour fluid, hoarseness, cough, or a lump feeling in the throat, sometimes without obvious chest burning. Nasal allergy, infection, acid reflux, gastritis, and other irritants can coexist, so the pattern matters: notice whether symptoms follow meals, lying down, seasons, dust, or a cold.

Read about [Heartburn](/symptoms/heartburn/) and [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/) for related explanations.

Drink fluids regularly, avoid repeated forceful throat clearing, and use gentle nasal hygiene if a clinician or pharmacist has recommended it. Remain upright after meals and reduce foods or drinks that clearly provoke burning. Keep smoke and strong fragrances away from irritated airways. Do not start nasal or reflux medicines indefinitely without checking that they fit your symptoms, other medicines, and health conditions.

A clinician can discuss whether [Acid Reflux Medication](/treatments/medical-management/acid-reflux-medication/) is suitable.

Arrange a review if cough, hoarseness, throat clearing, or burning persists, disrupts sleep, or causes difficulty eating. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, coughing blood, chest pressure, severe swallowing difficulty, or sudden severe illness. A fever with worsening facial pain or feeling very unwell also warrants prompt medical advice.

Do my symptoms fit post-nasal drip, reflux, or both? Should my nose, throat, or chest be examined? Which measures are safe with my current medicines, and how long should I try them before arranging follow-up?