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Mucus dripping down the back of the throat

Also called: Postnasal drip, throat mucus

Mucus dripping down the back of the throat (postnasal drip) is common with colds, allergies, sinus infections, and dry air. It can cause throat clearing, a tickly cough, and a sore throat. Saline rinses, fluids, and allergy treatment usually help.

Common causesColds, allergies, sinusitis, reflux, dry air
Usually serious?No
Get checked ifIt lasts more than 3 weeks, or with fever or blood
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

The nose and sinuses make mucus all the time. When there's more or it's thicker, you feel it drip down the throat, especially lying down.

Allergies, colds, sinus infections, and nasal sprays are common causes. Acid reflux can cause a similar feeling of mucus in the throat.

When to get medical care

Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayFever with facial swelling or severe headache. Trouble breathing.
See a doctor soonSymptoms lasting more than 3 weeks. Thick, discolored mucus with facial pain for over 10 days. Blood in mucus. Cough that won't go away.

Causes

Causes include colds, allergies, sinusitis, non-allergic rhinitis, dry air, reflux, and some medicines.

OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause mucus dripping down the back of the throat. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • Postnasal dripOften treated at home

    Extra mucus dripping down the back of the throat, causing throat clearing, a tickly cough (often at night), and a sore or scratchy throat.

What you can do at home

  • Rinse your nose with saline.
  • Drink plenty of fluids.
  • Use a humidifier.
  • Raise your head at night.

Medicines

Antihistamines and steroid nose sprays help allergies. Decongestants for a few days may help colds.

At the doctor

The provider will look for the cause.

Questions you may be asked

  • How long
  • Allergies
  • Heartburn

The exam

A nose and throat exam.

Tests

  • Usually no tests

Prevention

Reduce triggers.

  • Treat allergies
  • Use a humidifier
  • Avoid smoke

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

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Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.