Sinus cough: what to know

When the nose is inflamed or congested, mucus may move backwards towards the throat. This can irritate the throat and lead to throat-clearing or a cough, especially when lying down. Nasal blockage, sneezing, facial pressure or a reduced sense of smell may support a nose or sinus contribution.

A cough can also follow a common cold or acute bronchitis. Wheeze, chest tightness or cough triggered by exercise may suggest asthma. A dry cough after meals or when lying down can occur with acid reflux. The pattern, examination and duration help distinguish these possibilities.

Drink fluids, avoid smoke and use saline spray or a properly prepared nasal rinse if congestion is present. Sleeping with the upper body slightly raised may reduce throat irritation for some people. Honey may soothe a cough in adults and children over one year, but it is not suitable for infants.

Follow label instructions for any medicine and ask a pharmacist about interactions or age restrictions. Antibiotics do not treat every cough, because many common respiratory illnesses are caused by viruses.

Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, chest pain, coughing blood, confusion, fainting or a rapidly worsening illness.

Arrange a medical review for a cough that persists, keeps returning, disturbs sleep, comes with wheeze, fever, weight change or night sweats, or occurs in someone with a significant lung condition. A clinician can assess the nose, throat, lungs and medicines.

Ask whether post-nasal drainage explains the cough, whether reflux or asthma should be considered, which symptom relief is safe for you, and when persistent cough requires testing.