Sore throat caused by postnasal drip

Inside view of mucus draining from nasal cavity into throat, causing sore throat.

Postnasal drip is when mucus from the nasal cavity 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.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

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

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

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