Mucus is usually swallowed unconsciously, but when there is a feeling of the mucus gathering in the throat or dripping from the back of your nose, it is called post-nasal drip.
Glands in your nose and throat continually produce mucus, usually one to two quarts per day. Mucus moistens and cleans the nasal lining, moistens air, traps and clears what is inhaled, and helps fight infection.
Contrary to popular belief, post-nasal drip is a symptom and not, in fact, a diagnosis. This can be due to excess mucus from an upper respiratory tract infection, allergic, or non-allergic rhinitis, from a sensation of mucus in the throat that is being incorrectly attributed to a nasal issue, or even hypersensitivity to normal mucus.
The key to proper treatment and relief is the correct diagnosis. The expertise of an ear, nose, and throat specialist may be required to identify the diagnosis and to recommend appropriate treatment.
Call Benjamin Liess MD at (207) 415-4841 for more information or to schedule an appointment.