Post-Nasal Drip

Treating Your Nasal Symptoms In Virginia Beach, VA

Post-nasal drip can be more than just a nuisance. It can interfere with sleep, cause persistent coughing and leave your throat feeling irritated throughout the day. At AFC Urgent Care Princess Anne, we understand how uncomfortable and frustrating symptoms like throat irritation, congestion and coughing can be.

Our experienced medical providers can quickly evaluate your symptoms, identify potential underlying causes, and recommend appropriate treatment. Whether your post-nasal drip is related to allergies, a sinus infection or another condition, we offer walk-in urgent care, on-site diagnostics and around the clock care to help you feel better as soon as possible.

What Is a Post-Nasal Drip?

Post-nasal drip occurs when excess mucus produced by the nose and sinuses drains down the back of the throat instead of exiting through the nostrils. While mucus is a normal and necessary part of your immune system, if mucus becomes too thick or is produced in excess, it can irritate the throat.

When this happens, mucus can collect in the throat, leading to irritation, coughing and the constant need to clear your throat. Many patients describe post-nasal drip as feeling like something is “stuck” in the back of the throat or a sensation of ongoing drainage.

Common Symptoms of Post-Nasal Drip

Post-nasal drip can cause a variety of symptoms that range from mild to persistent, including:

• A sensation of mucus draining down the throat
• Frequent throat clearing or swallowing
• A cough that worsens at night or when lying down
• Sore, scratchy or irritated throat
• Hoarseness or a feeling of a lump in the throat

Symptoms are often most noticeable when lying flat or upon waking in the morning. In many cases, post-nasal drip occurs alongside nasal congestion, sneezing, sinus pressure or a runny nose.

What Causes Post-Nasal Drip?

Post-nasal drip is not a condition on its own, but rather a symptom of an underlying issue. Identifying the cause is essential to finding lasting relief. Common causes include:

• Allergies
• Colds and flu
• Sinusitis
• Environmental factors

Relieving Post-Nasal Drip

At AFC Urgent Care Princess Anne, our clinicians will evaluate your symptoms to determine the most likely cause and recommend targeted treatment. Many mild cases of can be managed with simple self-care measures, including:

• Hydration
• Saline nasal sprays or rinses
• Over-the-counter medications
• Avoiding irritants

When to Seek Care at AFC Urgent Care Princess Anne

While post-nasal drip is often mild, medical evaluation is recommended if:

• Symptoms last longer than 10 days or continue to worsen
• You develop a fever
• You experience difficulty breathing 
• You see blood in the mucus

Visit Us For Care Today

If you need fast relief or are looking to get to the bottom of your symptoms, visit our team at AFC Urgent Care Princess Anne. We’re open 7 days a week, with no appointment necessary. Our team provides expert evaluations and treatment recommendations to help you find relief. Walk in today or save your spot online for convenient, same-day care.