Mucus Stuck in Throat from Nose or Sinus?
Post-nasal drip is a common yet often frustrating symptom where mucus flows from the nose into the back of the throat instead of coming out through the nostrils. Many patients describe it as a constant feeling of mucus stuck in the throat, frequent throat clearing, or an unexplained chronic cough.
As an ENT specialist, I frequently see patients who have been treated for “gastric” or “throat infection” for years, when the actual cause originates from the nose or sinuses.
What Is Post-Nasal Drip?
Post-nasal drip occurs when excessive or thick mucus produced in the nose or sinuses drains backward into the throat.
This mucus can:
- Irritate the throat
- Trigger frequent throat clearing
- Cause chronic cough
- Lead to voice discomfort or hoarseness
Common Symptoms of Post-Nasal Drip
Patients often complain of:
- Sensation of mucus stuck in the throat
- Constant need to clear the throat
- Chronic dry or productive cough
- Bad breath
- Hoarse or tired voice
- Worse symptoms at night or in the morning
Common Causes of Post-Nasal Drip
1. Allergic Rhinitis (Resdung)
Excess mucus production due to allergy is the most common cause.
2. Sinusitis
Inflamed sinuses produce thick mucus that drains into the throat.
3. Non-Allergic Rhinitis
Triggered by pollution, cold air, or strong smells.
4. Acid Reflux (Laryngopharyngeal Reflux)
Reflux can irritate the throat and worsen mucus sensation.
5. Nasal Structural Problems
Deviated septum or turbinate enlargement can impair mucus clearance.
🚨 When Should You Worry About Post-Nasal Drip?
Seek ENT assessment if:
- Symptoms last more than 3–4 weeks
- There is persistent throat discomfort
- Symptoms do not improve with medication
- There is associated nasal blockage or facial pain
- Voice changes persist
Chronic symptoms require proper diagnosis to avoid misdirected treatment.
How an ENT Specialist Evaluates Post-Nasal Drip
ENT assessment may include:
- Detailed symptom analysis
- Nasal examination
- Nasal endoscopy to assess nasal cavity, sinuses, and nasopharynx
- Throat and voice assessment
This helps determine whether the cause is nasal, sinus-related, reflux-related, or mixed.
Treatment Options for Post-Nasal Drip
✅ Medical Treatment
- Intranasal steroid sprays
- Saline nasal irrigation
- Antihistamines (if allergy-related)
- Reflux management when indicated
✅ Lifestyle Measures
- Adequate hydration
- Avoid throat clearing
- Trigger avoidance
✅ Surgical Treatment (Selected Cases)
- Endoscopic sinus surgery
- Turbinate reduction
- Septal correction
Treatment focuses on the root cause, not just symptom suppression.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is post-nasal drip the same as acid reflux?
No. Although reflux can contribute, most cases originate from the nose or sinuses.
Q: Can post-nasal drip cause chronic cough?
Yes. It is a common cause of long-standing cough.
Q: Will antibiotics cure post-nasal drip?
Not unless there is bacterial sinus infection.
When Should You See an ENT Specialist in Kuala Lumpur?
You should consider ENT consultation if:
- Symptoms persist despite treatment
- You have ongoing throat discomfort
- Your voice or sleep is affected
- You are unsure of the underlying cause
ENT evaluation allows accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment, preventing unnecessary medication use.
Dr. Ameen, ENT Specialist in Kuala Lumpur 