The management of postnasal drip

Aust Fam Physician. 1999 Mar;28(3):223-8.

Abstract

Background: Postnasal drip is a symptom that can be very irritating to both patient and doctor.

Objective: The aim of this article is to give an approach to diagnosis and treatment of postnasal drip.

Discussion: In order to have an approach to management of this problem the pathophysiology needs to be understood. The causes of increased mucus awareness need to be known. Investigations are aimed at trying to clearly define the cause of the increased mucus and then specific treatment can be given to remedy the situation. Treatment is generally medical, however, surgical treatment is required in certain situations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Chronic Disease
  • Humans
  • Mucociliary Clearance / physiology*
  • Mucus / metabolism
  • Nasal Mucosa / metabolism*
  • Nasal Polyps / complications
  • Nasal Polyps / diagnosis
  • Nose Diseases / diagnosis
  • Nose Diseases / etiology
  • Nose Diseases / therapy*
  • Prognosis
  • Rhinitis / complications
  • Rhinitis / diagnosis*
  • Sinusitis / complications
  • Sinusitis / diagnosis*