Postnasal drip or acid reflux?
Mucus is constantly being produced by the body because it helps trap germs, so the mucus is also constantly dripping down the back of your throat. Post nasal drip, often referred to as
upper airway cough syndrome (UACS), happens when uncommonly thick or thin mucus that drips down the back of your throat, and this sensation will usually cause you to clear your throat. It is also often accompanied by a chronic cough.
Some people have
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) where the stomach acid is regurgitated through the esophagus and can cause health issues. GERD can cause a similar sensation to that of post nasal drip because there is a liquid going through the back of your throat. You can differentiate post nasal drip from acid reflux from the burning sensation you feel in the back of your throat, or heartburn when you experience acid reflux. Post nasal drip can be caused by allergies or colds, while acid reflux is caused by trigger foods like spicy foods, soda, or chocolate. It is important to know if you are experiencing post nasal drip or acid reflux so that you can treat it properly. If you are unable to determine whether you are experiencing acid reflux or post nasal drip, please speak to a physician so that he can provide the correct medication for what you are experiencing.