When to worry about postnasal drip with chronic sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis can keep the lining of the nose and sinuses swollen, limiting normal mucus drainage. Mucus may then collect or run down the back of the throat, causing throat-clearing, cough, blocked nose, facial pressure, reduced smell, or an unpleasant taste. Most people with Chronic Sinusitis notice postnasal drip. The pattern can fluctuate, and drainage alone does not show whether symptoms are from infection, allergy, irritation, or another nasal problem.

Use saline rinses only with sterile, distilled, or previously boiled and cooled water, and clean the device as directed. Avoid smoke, dusty air, and known irritants. Rest, drink enough fluids, and ask a clinician or pharmacist about an appropriate nasal spray; do not use decongestant sprays for longer than directed because congestion can rebound. Keep a note of blockage, facial pain, smell changes, discharge, and what relieves them.

Seek urgent care for swelling around an eye, vision changes, severe headache, confusion, neck stiffness, or rapidly worsening illness. Arrange a medical review for persistent one-sided blockage, recurrent nosebleeds, severe facial pain, high fever, foul-smelling discharge, or symptoms that keep returning despite treatment. An examination can distinguish sinus inflammation from problems needing different care.

Is my drainage more consistent with inflammation, allergy, infection, or reflux? Which rinse or nasal spray should I use? Do I need an examination of the nasal passages? Which eye, headache, or fever symptoms would change the urgency?