Post-Nasal Drip Treatment in NYC

Always clearing your throat, or feeling mucus drip down the back of it? That's post-nasal drip. It can cause a scratchy throat, hoarseness and a cough that's worse at night or first thing in the morning. Allergies are one of the most common causes, and they're very treatable.

Dr. Arthur Lubitz, a board-certified allergist and immunologist in Midtown Manhattan, finds out what's behind your post-nasal drip and treats the cause, not just the symptoms.

Common causes

• Allergies. Pollen, dust mites, pets and mold inflame the nose and increase mucus. Often comes with sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, or itchy eyes. See allergic rhinitis.
• Non-allergic rhinitis. Smoke, perfume, cleaning products, cold air and weather changes can trigger a drippy nose without an allergy.
• Sinus inflammation. Long-lasting sinus problems can keep mucus draining into the throat.
• Colds and other infections. These usually clear up within a couple of weeks.
• Acid reflux. Reflux into the throat can feel just like post-nasal drip and cause throat clearing.

When to see an allergist

• It has lasted more than a few weeks, or keeps coming back
• It's worse in certain seasons, or around pets, dust or mold
• You also sneeze, have itchy eyes or a stuffy nose
• It has led to a cough that won't go away or a hoarse voice
• Over-the-counter medicines haven't helped

How Dr. Lubitz helps

1. Allergy testing to find your triggers, with skin test results the same visit.
2. A treatment plan that may include prescription nasal sprays, antihistamines, saline rinses and steps to reduce exposure at home.
3. Allergy shots or drops for long-term relief when allergies are the cause.

Using a sinus rinse? Use distilled, sterile or previously boiled and cooled water, never plain tap water.

See a doctor promptly if

you have a high fever, facial swelling, blood in your mucus, symptoms on only one side of your nose, or trouble swallowing or breathing.

Related: sneezing and runny nose · chronic cough · seasonal allergies

This page is general information, not medical advice. If you have severe or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor or call 911.