Postnasal Drip Specialist

Lake Grove ENT Our Services Postnasal Drip

Lake Grove ENT

Board Certified Otolaryngologist & Otolaryngologic Allergy located in Lake Oswego, OR

Postnasal drip that doesn’t go away on its own can lead to an array of unpleasant symptoms and more serious sinus conditions. The team of board-certified otolaryngologists at Lake Grove ENT in Lake Oswego, Oregon, can get to the root causes of your postnasal drip so you can get long-term relief. From the common cold to nasal allergies, find out what’s causing your postnasal drip and get effective treatments. Call the office or use the convenient online scheduler.

Postnasal Drip Q & A

What is postnasal drip?

Postnasal drip occurs when your sinuses produce more mucus than usual and it runs into the back of your throat. The glands in your nose and throat naturally secrete clear mucus to lubricate your nasal membranes. This mucus also fights off infections, so when you have a sinus infection, your body produces excess mucus that often leads to postnasal drip.

For most people, postnasal drip is temporary, but if it occurs regularly, your physician at Lake Grove ENT identifies the underlying cause so you can get relief.

What are the symptoms of postnasal drip?

Postnasal drip symptoms are not pleasant and typically include any of the following:

  • A sore, scratchy sensation in your throat
  • Frequent coughing and clearing your throat
  • Feeling like there’s a lump in the back of your throat when you swallow
  • Raspy speech
  • Swollen tonsils and irritated throat tissue

Until you discover the underlying cause of recurring or chronic postnasal drip, the symptoms may be annoying and even lead to swallowing disorders.

What causes postnasal drip?

Colds, allergies, and even spicy foods can cause postnasal drip. Anything that increases mucus production, including some medications or hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause, can lead to temporary postnasal drip. Additionally, you may experience postnasal drip as a result of:

  • Nasal allergies to pollen, dust, dander, or other environmental irritants
  • Bacterial infections
  • Acid reflux
  • Consuming dairy products
  • Dry air during winter months
  • Changes in weather conditions

If left untreated, chronic postnasal drip can lead to a sore throat as well as a cough that never fully clears up. It can also lead to ear and sinus infections.

How does my provider diagnose postnasal drip?

To find out if you have postnasal drip, your Lake Grove ENT specialist reviews your medical history and asks questions about your symptoms. They complete a physical exam and assess your nasal passages for polyps, fluid buildup, inflammation, and other abnormalities. 

Your provider might recommend you undergo CT scans, MRIs, or allergy testing to confirm a diagnosis and develop an effective treatment.

What are common treatments for postnasal drip?

Begin with home remedies to get relief from postnasal drip. Drinking extra water keeps your mucus thin and easier to swallow as it drips into the back of your throat. Avoid consuming dairy products since they increase mucus production.

Your Lake Grove ENT specialist might also suggest:

  • Saline sprays or washes
  • Nasal steroid sprays
  • Antibiotics
  • Oral steroids
  • Allergy shots
  • Antihistamines
  • Decongestants
  • Corticosteroids
  • Pain relievers
  • Other medications
  • Surgical procedures

To learn more about treatment for postnasal drip, call Lake Grove ENT to schedule an appointment or book online today.

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