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Thick Mucus in Throat: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief
Common causes of thick postnasal drip / throat mucus:
- Allergic rhinitis: Pollen, dust, dander → inflammation + excess mucus.
- Sinusitis: Infected/inflamed sinuses drain thick mucus posteriorly.
- Viral URI (cold/flu): Increased mucus production, often thicker as illness progresses.
- Bronchitis/Pneumonia: Lower airway inflammation produces sputum that may be coughed up or swallowed.
- GERD: Reflux irritates throat, stimulating mucus secretion.
- Chronic conditions: Cystic fibrosis, asthma, COPD.
When to see a doctor: Fever, chills, shortness of breath, blood in mucus, symptoms >10 days, or worsening after initial improvement.
Relief measures: Hydration, saline rinses, steam, humidifier, OTC expectorants (guaifenesin), treat underlying cause.
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