What is postnasal drip?

Postnasal Drip
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Postnasal drip

Postnasal drip occurs when mucus from the nasal passages and sinuses drains into the throat. If the mucus becomes thick, postnasal drip can cause problems such as a sore throat, laryngitis, a cough, bad breath, hoarseness, and sometimes wheezing.

A problem caused by postnasal drip often improves on its own, but if it lingers, it may need treatment with medicines.

Sore throat caused by postnasal drip

Inside view of mucus draining from nasal cavity into throat, causing sore throat.

Postnasal drip is when mucus from the nasal cavity and sinuses drains into the throat. Postnasal drip can cause a sore throat, laryngitis, a cough, bad breath, hoarseness, and sometimes wheezing.

Postnasal drip often improves on its own, but if it lingers it may need treatment.

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