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Sore throat caused by postnasal drip

Inside view of head, showing the sinuses with postnasal drip draining into throat

Postnasal drip is when mucus from the nasal passages and sinuses drains into the throat. Postnasal drip can cause a sore throat, laryngitis, a cough, bad breath, hoarseness, and sometimes wheezing.

Postnasal drip often improves on its own, but if it lingers it may need treatment with medicines.

Current as of: February 28, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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