Runny Nose and Post-Nasal Drip
A constantly runny nose or the feeling of mucus dripping down the back of your throat—known as post-nasal drip—can be frustrating and tiring. For some people, it’s a seasonal issue linked to pollen or dust. For others, it’s a year-round problem with no clear trigger.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, we regularly help patients who suffer from these symptoms and offer a range of effective treatments tailored to the underlying cause.
Allergic vs. Non-Allergic Rhinitis
Not all runny noses are the same. The two main types are:
Allergic Rhinitis
Caused by your immune system reacting to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
Symptoms include sneezing, itchy nose/eyes, congestion, and watery nasal discharge.
Often seasonal (hay fever) but can also be present all year round.
Non-Allergic (Intrinsic) Rhinitis
Not triggered by allergies, but by irritants (smoke, perfumes, changes in weather) or an overactive nasal nerve supply.
Symptoms are usually a runny or blocked nose without the itch and sneezing typical of allergies.
Can be just as troublesome, particularly when associated with constant post-nasal drip.
Treatment Options
The right treatment depends on whether your rhinitis is allergic or non-allergic. Common approaches include:
1. Nasal Steroid Sprays
Reduce inflammation and swelling inside the nose.
Helpful for both allergic and non-allergic rhinitis.
Need to be used consistently to be effective.
2. Ipratropium Bromide Nasal Spray
Particularly useful for watery runny noses caused by non-allergic rhinitis.
Works by calming down the overactive nerve signals that drive mucus production.
3. ClariFix® Treatment
A modern, minimally invasive treatment for chronic non-allergic rhinitis.
Uses cryotherapy (cold therapy) applied to the overactive nerves inside the nose.
Takes only a few minutes in clinic, with lasting results for many patients.
4. Additional Measures
Antihistamines (for allergic rhinitis).
Saline rinses to clear allergens and mucus.
Avoiding known triggers where possible.
How Hampshire ENT Clinics Can Help
Our experienced ENT consultants will:
Carry out a thorough history and nasal examination.
Arrange allergy testing if needed.
Tailor your treatment—whether that’s medical sprays, in-clinic procedures like ClariFix®, or a combination.
We understand how disruptive constant nasal symptoms can be to daily life. With the right diagnosis and treatment, you can finally gain control and breathe more comfortably.
Take the Next Step
If you’re struggling with a runny nose or post-nasal drip, you don’t have to live with it. Contact Hampshire ENT Clinics today and let our expert team help you find relief.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Runny Nose and Post-Nasal Drip
What is post-nasal drip?
Post-nasal drip is the sensation of mucus dripping down the back of the throat from the nose or sinuses. It can cause throat clearing, coughing, hoarseness, and a constant “mucus” feeling, even when the nose itself is not obviously blocked.
What causes a constantly runny nose?
The most common causes are:
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever or dust mite allergy)
Non-allergic (intrinsic) rhinitis, where the nasal lining overreacts to irritants, temperature changes or smells
Chronic sinus inflammation
Post-viral nasal nerve overactivity
Less commonly, reflux or medication side effects
Identifying the underlying cause is key to effective treatment.
How can I tell if my symptoms are allergic or non-allergic?
Allergic rhinitis typically causes sneezing, itchiness of the nose or eyes, and watery discharge, often with a seasonal pattern.
Non-allergic rhinitis usually causes a runny or blocked nose without itch or sneezing and is often triggered by cold air, perfumes, smoke, or eating.
Why do antihistamines not always help?
Antihistamines work well for allergy-driven symptoms such as itching and sneezing. They are much less effective for non-allergic rhinitis, where nerve overactivity rather than histamine is the main driver of symptoms.
Are nasal steroid sprays effective?
Yes. Steroid nasal sprays reduce inflammation inside the nose and are often the first-line treatment for both allergic and non-allergic rhinitis. They must be used correctly and consistently for several weeks to achieve benefit.
What is ipratropium nasal spray and when is it used?
Ipratropium bromide is particularly effective for a watery runny nose, especially in non-allergic rhinitis. It reduces excessive mucus production by calming nasal nerve activity.
What is ClariFix® and who is it suitable for?
ClariFix® is a minimally invasive cryotherapy treatment for chronic non-allergic rhinitis and persistent post-nasal drip. It targets the overactive nasal nerves responsible for excessive mucus production. It is suitable for patients whose symptoms persist despite sprays and tablets.
Is ClariFix® surgery?
No. ClariFix® is an in-clinic procedure that takes only a few minutes. There are no cuts, stitches, or major recovery period. Most patients return to normal activities the same day or the next day.
Can sinus problems cause post-nasal drip?
Yes. Chronic rhinosinusitis can cause thick mucus drainage, facial pressure and reduced smell. ENT assessment helps distinguish sinus-related problems from rhinitis.
When should I see an ENT specialist?
You should seek ENT review if:
Symptoms are persistent or year-round
Treatments from your GP are not helping
Post-nasal drip affects your voice, sleep or quality of life
You have associated nasal blockage, facial pressure or reduced smell
How can Hampshire ENT Clinics help?
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, we provide:
Consultant-led nasal assessment
Allergy evaluation where appropriate
Targeted medical treatment plans
In-clinic procedures such as ClariFix® for suitable patients
Our aim is to identify the cause of your symptoms and provide long-term relief, not just short-term fixes.
👉 If a runny nose or post-nasal drip is affecting your daily life, contact Hampshire ENT Clinics to arrange an expert assessment and personalised treatment plan.