Post-nasal drip: Difference between revisions

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[[Post-nasal drip]] (PND), also recognized as upper airway cough syndrome (UACS), is a condition resulting from the excessive production of mucus by the nasal mucosa. This surplus mucus accumulates in the back of the nose and, once it drips down, in the throat.
{{SI}}
 
{{Infobox medical condition
== Causes ==
| name            = Post-nasal drip
The underlying causes of PND can be varied and multifaceted:
| image          = [[File:Post_nasal_drip_en.png|250px]]
* '''[[Rhinitis]]''': An inflammation of the nasal mucosa, causing a high production of mucus.
| caption        = Diagram showing post-nasal drip
* '''[[Sinusitis]]''': Inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses can lead to an increased mucus production.
| field          = [[Otorhinolaryngology]]
* '''[[Gastroesophageal reflux disease]] (GERD)''': A chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of the esophagus and cause PND.
| synonyms        = Upper airway cough syndrome
* '''Swallowing disorders''': Such as esophageal motility disorders, can cause a sensation of mucus in the throat.
| symptoms        = [[Cough]], [[sore throat]], [[nasal congestion]], [[runny nose]]
* '''Allergies''', '''common cold''', and '''flu''': These conditions lead to an increase in mucus production as part of the body's defense mechanism.
| complications  = [[Sinusitis]], [[ear infection]]
* '''Side effects from certain medications''': Certain drugs, like those used for high blood pressure, can cause an increase in mucus production.
| onset          = Any age
 
| duration        = Can be chronic
== Symptoms ==
| causes          = [[Allergies]], [[viral infection]], [[bacterial infection]], [[gastroesophageal reflux disease]]
Symptoms of PND can include a feeling of mucus trickling down the back of the throat, frequent swallowing or clearing of the throat, cough, and a sore or scratchy throat. In some cases, it can lead to difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or a nagging cough.
| risks          = [[Smoking]], [[pollution]], [[dry air]]
 
| diagnosis      = [[Physical examination]], [[nasal endoscopy]]
== Diagnosis and Treatment ==
| differential    = [[Asthma]], [[chronic bronchitis]], [[gastroesophageal reflux disease]]
Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination and a review of medical history. Further tests, such as nasal and sinus cultures or X-rays, may be done if an underlying condition is suspected.
| treatment      = [[Antihistamines]], [[decongestants]], [[nasal corticosteroids]], [[saline nasal sprays]]
 
| medication      = [[Loratadine]], [[pseudoephedrine]], [[fluticasone]]
Treatment of PND aims at addressing the underlying cause. This can involve antibiotics for bacterial infections, antihistamines or corticosteroids for allergies, or proton pump inhibitors for GERD. Over-the-counter decongestants and mucus thinners may also be recommended.
| frequency      = Common
 
| deaths          = Rarely life-threatening
== References ==
}}
* [https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postnasal-drip/symptoms-causes/syc-20377508 Mayo Clinic: Postnasal Drip]
{{Short description|Overview of post-nasal drip}}
* [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3099088/ PubMed: Post-Nasal Drip Syndrome — A Symptom to be Sniffed At?]
'''Post-nasal drip''' is a condition where excess mucus accumulates in the back of the [[nasal cavity]] and [[throat]], leading to a sensation of mucus dripping downward from the back of the nose. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including a sore throat, cough, and a feeling of needing to clear the throat frequently.
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==Causes==
{{Respiratory system symptoms and signs}}
Post-nasal drip can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
[[Category:Nose disorders]]
* [[Allergies]]: Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, or pet dander can lead to increased mucus production.
[[Category:Syndromes]]
* [[Infections]]: Viral infections such as the [[common cold]] or [[sinusitis]] can cause inflammation and mucus buildup.
[[Category:Medical conditions]]
* [[Environmental irritants]]: Exposure to smoke, pollution, or strong odors can irritate the nasal passages.
[[Category:Respiratory system]]
* [[Gastroesophageal reflux disease]] (GERD): Acid reflux can irritate the throat and lead to increased mucus production.
==Symptoms==
The symptoms of post-nasal drip can vary but often include:
* A sensation of mucus dripping down the throat
* Frequent throat clearing
* [[Cough]]
* [[Sore throat]]
* [[Hoarseness]]
* Bad breath
==Diagnosis==
Diagnosis of post-nasal drip is typically based on a patient's symptoms and medical history. A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination and may also recommend tests such as:
* [[Nasal endoscopy]]: A procedure to look inside the nasal passages and throat.
* [[Allergy testing]]: To identify potential allergens causing symptoms.
==Treatment==
Treatment for post-nasal drip depends on the underlying cause. Common treatments include:
* [[Antihistamines]]: To reduce allergic reactions.
* [[Decongestants]]: To relieve nasal congestion.
* [[Nasal irrigation]]: Using saline solutions to clear nasal passages.
* [[Corticosteroid nasal sprays]]: To reduce inflammation.
==Prevention==
Preventive measures for post-nasal drip include:
* Avoiding known allergens and irritants.
* Using a [[humidifier]] to keep air moist.
* Staying hydrated to thin mucus secretions.
==See also==
* [[Rhinitis]]
* [[Sinusitis]]
* [[Allergic rhinitis]]
* [[Gastroesophageal reflux disease]]
[[Category:Otorhinolaryngology]]
[[Category:Respiratory diseases]]

Latest revision as of 15:38, 8 April 2025

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Post-nasal drip
Synonyms Upper airway cough syndrome
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, runny nose
Complications Sinusitis, ear infection
Onset Any age
Duration Can be chronic
Types N/A
Causes Allergies, viral infection, bacterial infection, gastroesophageal reflux disease
Risks Smoking, pollution, dry air
Diagnosis Physical examination, nasal endoscopy
Differential diagnosis Asthma, chronic bronchitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease
Prevention N/A
Treatment Antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, saline nasal sprays
Medication Loratadine, pseudoephedrine, fluticasone
Prognosis N/A
Frequency Common
Deaths Rarely life-threatening


Overview of post-nasal drip


Post-nasal drip is a condition where excess mucus accumulates in the back of the nasal cavity and throat, leading to a sensation of mucus dripping downward from the back of the nose. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including a sore throat, cough, and a feeling of needing to clear the throat frequently.

Causes[edit]

Post-nasal drip can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Symptoms[edit]

The symptoms of post-nasal drip can vary but often include:

Diagnosis[edit]

Diagnosis of post-nasal drip is typically based on a patient's symptoms and medical history. A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination and may also recommend tests such as:

Treatment[edit]

Treatment for post-nasal drip depends on the underlying cause. Common treatments include:

Prevention[edit]

Preventive measures for post-nasal drip include:

  • Avoiding known allergens and irritants.
  • Using a humidifier to keep air moist.
  • Staying hydrated to thin mucus secretions.

See also[edit]

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