Understanding Chronic Cough and Postnasal Drip Syndrome
A cough that lingers for more than a couple of weeks can be frustrating and worrying. But when a cough persists for 8 weeks or longer, it may be a sign of a condition known as Chronic Cough or Upper Airway Cough Syndrome (UACS)—often linked to what’s commonly called postnasal drip syndrome.
What Does It Feel Like?
Patients often describe the sensation as though something is “stuck in the throat.” Others experience a dry, persistent cough accompanied by the feeling of mucus trickling down the back of the throat. These unusual throat sensations are central to the diagnosis.
The First Step: Rule Out Chest or Lung Problems
If you’re experiencing a cough that won’t go away, your first step should be a visit to your GP. They may:
Order a chest X-ray
Carry out a spirometry test (to assess lung function)
This helps rule out lung or chest conditions as the cause.
ENT Referral: Looking Closer at the Upper Airway
If your lungs are clear, your GP may refer you to an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) specialist for further investigation. This usually involves a quick, well-tolerated procedure called a flexible nasendoscopy—a tiny camera passed through the nose to examine the nasal cavity and voice box.
Common Causes of Chronic Cough and Postnasal Drip
Some of the most frequent underlying issues include:
Postnasal drip (from allergic or non-allergic rhinitis, or nasal polyps)
Laryngopharyngeal reflux (acid reflux affecting the throat and voice box)
Treatment Options
The good news is that there are effective treatments, often starting with conservative management:
Nasal sprays (to reduce inflammation)
Saline rinses/douching (to clear mucus)
Antihistamines (to treat allergy-related symptoms)
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g. lansoprazole) and Gaviscon Advance (to manage reflux)
For some patients, ENT specialists may also suggest minimally invasive procedures, such as cryotherapy, to help reduce persistent postnasal drip.
Takeaway
If you’ve had a cough for more than 8 weeks, don’t ignore it. Start by checking in with your GP, and if necessary, an ENT specialist can help uncover the cause and provide targeted treatment. With the right care, most people find significant relief from chronic cough and postnasal drip symptoms.