Post-Nasal Drip

Managing Cold Or Sinus Symptoms In Suffolk, VA

We understand how uncomfortable and frustrating throat irritation, coughing or congestion associated with post-nasal drip can be. At AFC Urgent Care Suffolk, our experienced medical providers can quickly assess your symptoms, identify underlying causes and recommend appropriate treatment, whether that includes medication, allergy management or further diagnostic testing. With convenient hours, on-site diagnostic and walk-in appointments, our goal is to help you breathe easier, reduce irritation and get back to feeling your best as quickly as possible.

What Is Post-Nasal Drip?

Post-nasal drip occurs when excess mucus produced by your nose and sinuses drains down the back of your throat instead of out through your nostrils. While everyone produces mucus as part of a healthy immune system, problems arise when mucus becomes thicker, stickier or is produced in excess.

Normally, mucus helps trap dust, allergens, bacteria, and viruses before they reach your lungs. However, when production increases or drainage is disrupted, mucus can collect in the throat, causing irritation and discomfort. Many people describe post-nasal drip as a constant need to clear their throat or a feeling that something is “stuck” in the back of the throat.

This condition often accompanies seasonal allergies, colds, sinus infections, or exposure to environmental irritants like smoke and dry air. Other triggers may include changes in weather, certain medications, dehydration or even acid reflux (GERD).

Common Symptoms of Post-Nasal Drip

Post-nasal drip can cause a range of uncomfortable and sometimes persistent symptoms, including:

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

Symptoms are often more noticeable when you lie down to sleep or when you first wake up in the morning.

What Causes Post-Nasal Drip?

Post-nasal drip isn’t an illness itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying condition. In many cases, it occurs alongside other nasal symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, sinus pressure or a runny nose. Our clinician will evaluate you to identify the cause, which is key to finding relief. Common causes include:

• Allergies: Pollen, dust mites, mold and pet dander can trigger inflammation and excessive mucus production
• Colds and flu: Infections like these can lead to more mucus 
• Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses can worsen congestion and drainage
• Environmental factors: Dry indoor air, smoke, pollution or strong odors may irritate the nose
• Other causes: Acid reflux (GERD), hormonal changes, certain medications or structural nasal issues can also contribute

Relieving Post-Nasal Drip

Many mild cases of post-nasal drip can be managed with simple self-care strategies, including:

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to help thin mucus. Warm beverages may also help soothe the throat. Using a humidifier or inhaling steam from a warm shower can also bring relief to irritated nasal passages.
• Saline: Saline nasal sprays or rinses (such as a neti pot) can help flush out mucus, allergens, and irritants from the nasal passages, reducing buildup and drainage.
• Over-the-Counter Medications: Decongestants, antihistamines or nasal sprays may help reduce mucus production, especially when allergies are the trigger.
• Avoiding Irritants: Limiting exposure to cigarette smoke, strong fragrances, chemicals, and dry air can help prevent symptoms from worsening.

When to Seek Care at AFC Urgent Care Suffolk

Our clinicians can determine whether your symptoms are related to allergies, infection, or another condition and recommend targeted treatment to help you recover. 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 or facial pain
• You experience difficulty breathing or wheezing
• There is blood in your mucus
• Symptoms become severe or interfere with daily activities

Visit Us for Same-Day Care

If you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms or need fast relief, visit AFC Urgent Care Suffolk. Quality, convenient care is available 7 days a week, with no appointment required. Our team offers fast evaluation and personalized treatment to help you feel better fast.

Walk in at your convenience or save your spot online today.