Postnasal Drip or Sinus Infection? Causes and Relief
Key Takeaways
- Postnasal drip is when excess mucus drains down the back of your throat, often causing coughing, throat irritation, or frequent throat clearing.
- Common causes of postnasal drip include colds, allergies, sinus infections, and chronic rhinitis. How long it lasts depends on the cause.
- Drinking fluids, using saline nasal sprays or rinses, and avoiding irritants may help get rid of postnasal drip at home.
- Postnasal drip can be a symptom of a sinus infection, but not all sinus infections require antibiotics. See a medical provider if symptoms persist, worsen, or keep returning.
Do you ever have that feeling when something keeps tickling the back of your throat, no matter how often you swallow or clear it? It could be postnasal drip.
Different illnesses and infections can cause postnasal drip. But how long does it last, and what can you do to get rid of it? Here's what to know about finding relief and recognizing when a sinus infection (sinusitis) may be to blame.
What is Postnasal Drip and What Causes It?
As you read this, glands in your nose and throat are making mucus, for good reason. This substance cleans the air you inhale and adds moisture to it, among other important functions.
When you’re sick, you make more mucus, and it may be thicker than usual. Too much of it can cause drainage down the back of your throat, leading to coughing, throat irritation, or a feeling that something is stuck.
- Colds and other viral infections
- Bacterial infections
- Chronic rhinitis (ongoing inflammation or irritation in the nose)
- Allergies
- Environmental irritants, like dust or fumes
- Some medications
What Does Postnasal Drip Feel Like?
- Feeling mucus drain down your throat
- Frequent coughing
- The feeling of a lump or something stuck in your throat
- Hoarse voice
- Sore throat
- Swallowing more than usual
How Long Does Postnasal Drip Last?
Postnasal drip may last a few days, several weeks, or even months, depending on what's causing it. If it's related to a cold or another short-term infection, symptoms may improve as you recover. Postnasal drip caused by allergies or chronic rhinitis can persist or return for much longer.
A sinus infection may cause lingering drainage, especially if inflammation continues after other symptoms improve. If your postnasal drip lasts for several weeks, keeps returning, or worsens, reach out to your doctor.
How to Get Rid of Postnasal Drip
The best way to get rid of postnasal drip depends on the cause. While treating the underlying condition is the most important step, there are ways to relieve symptoms in the meantime.
Postnasal Drip Relief at Home
- Drink plenty of water to break up mucus.
- Try a saline nasal spray.
- Elevate your head with pillows in bed to reduce mucus build-up.
- Use a humidifier to keep the air moist and help relieve sinus pressure.
- Avoid tobacco smoke or other irritants.
- Try a saline nasal rinse to flush out excess mucus. Use only distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled water.
What Can You Take for Postnasal Drip?
- Antihistamines: May help when allergies are causing excess mucus or drainage.
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays: Can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, particularly when allergies or certain types of rhinitis are contributing to symptoms.
- Saline nasal sprays: Help moisturize nasal passages and loosen mucus.
Can Postnasal Drip Be a Sign of a Sinus Infection?
Yes. Postnasal drip is a common symptom of sinusitis or sinus infection.
Sinus infection symptoms include:
- Postnasal drip
- Nasal congestion
- Facial pain or pressure
- Headache
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Fever
Are Sinus Infections Contagious?
No, sinusitis itself is not contagious, but the viruses that cause many sinus infections can spread from person to person.
Do You Need Antibiotics for a Sinus Infection?
Not always. Some bacterial sinus infections may require antibiotics, but many cases improve without them. When a sinus infection is caused by a virus, antibiotics won't help.
Your doctor or our Virtual Urgent Care team can help determine the best treatment. They may consider how long you've been sick, whether symptoms are improving, and whether new or worsening symptoms started after initially feeling better.
When to Seek Care
Reach out to your doctor or care team if you experience:
- Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days,
- Symptoms that worsen after initially improving
- Severe headache or facial pain
- Fever for more than three days
- Repeat sinus infections.
Persistent postnasal drip may warrant evaluation by an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist.
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