When should you see a doctor about postnasal drip?

Postnasal drip is the sensation of mucus moving from the back of the nose into the throat. Allergic rhinitis may cause clear mucus with sneezing and itchy eyes. Sinusitis or chronic sinusitis can add facial pressure, blocked breathing, reduced smell, or thicker discharge. Acid reflux can irritate the throat and create a lump sensation or throat clearing even when nasal symptoms are limited. Ongoing drainage may also feed a chronic cough.

Drink fluids, avoid smoke and other irritants, and consider a saline nasal rinse using safe water and clean equipment. Notice whether symptoms follow dust, pollen, meals, lying down, or a recent infection. Sleep with your head slightly raised if lying down worsens throat clearing. A clinician or pharmacist can help choose treatment based on the suspected cause; avoid prolonged self-treatment when the pattern is unclear.

Seek urgent help for postnasal drip with significant breathing difficulty, inability to swallow fluids, swelling of the face or throat, coughing blood, severe headache, confusion, or rapidly worsening illness. Arrange prompt assessment for one-sided bloody discharge, severe facial or eye pain, high fever, or symptoms after an injury. Persistent hoarseness, a chronic cough, or repeated throat clearing also deserves review so the underlying cause is not missed.

Ask whether the pattern fits allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, chronic sinusitis, or acid reflux, and whether your nose and throat need examination. Ask which nasal products are suitable, how long to try them, and which changes should lead to an earlier review.