Possible causes of Post Nasal Drip

Infection /Disease /Condition /Factor

Comment

Allergic Rhinitis

(Hay fever / Indoor allergies)

Common chronic respiratory condition and most likely cause of post nasal drip. Not an infection, the immune system overreacts to air-borne allergens to expel the allergen (sneezing, watery/itchy eyes, and runny nose) and to prevent more of the allergen from entering the body (increase mucus production and swelling of the nasal passages). Typical allergens include: Hay fever (pollens), Mold spores, dust mite/cockroach debris, pet dander, mildew, foods, medicines, insect venom;

Runny Nose (Rhinitis)

Can be caused from infections, low humidity or by airborne irritations.

Cold

An upper respiratory viral infection that includes the nose and throat.

Sinus Infection

(Sinusitis)

Infection/inflammation of the air-filled spaces that are in the bones in and around the nose.

Streptococcus Infection

Group A streptococcus causes a variety of streptococcal infections including acute pharyngitis, impetigo, toxic shock syndrome, invasive fasciitis, pyoderma, scarlet fever, and pneumonia.

Adenoiditis

Inflammation of the adenoids caused from a viral/bacterial infection and allergies.

GERD (Reflux)

/Heartburn

Muscles around the lower esophageal sphincter, the entrance to the stomach, become relaxed and prevent involuntary swallowing of mucus.

Deviated Septum/ enlarged turbinates or adenoids

A deviated nasal septum is not in the normal position.

Nasal polyp

A polyp that is found in the nasal passage.

Rhinitis

Inflammation of nasal lining that leads to a runny or blocked passage.

Nasal congestion

Rhinitis Medicamentosa

Inflammation of nasal mucous membranes secondary to excessive or improper topical medication

Nasal congestion

Congestion of the nasal passages.

Nasal swelling

Swelling of nasal passages

Inhaled irritants

Pollen, smoke, dust mites, chemicals, pet dander are the most common causes of post nasal drip, promoting an allergic reaction and the release of histamine, which causes inflammation and mucus production, stopping the flow of cilia.

Low-humidity

Type A Personalities

Type A's naturally produce copious amounts of mucus - further increased when they eat mucus-producing food (E.g. dairy)

Inability to clear the mucus buildup in the throat

Due to age, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and blockage in the throat.