An E.N.T. doctor explains causes and solutions to excess mucus in the throat that won’t go away.
Mucus in the throat that won’t go away or that you “can’t get rid of,” as many people state, is a common problem.
“Throat clearing and mucus in the throat that will not go away is associated with stomach acid coming up into the back of the throat,” explains Dr. Stacey Silvers, MD, of Madison ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery in NYC, who is board certified in otolaryngology.
People with this form of acid reflux do not usually experience the ‘typical’ reflux symptoms of indigestion and ‘heartburn.’
“The body has one protective mechanism to acid in the back of the throat, which is mucus,” says Dr. Silvers.
“That thick mucus in the throat is annoying and causes the individual to clear their throat almost constantly in some cases.
“Mucus production does come from the back of the nose and drips down.
“This often causes the individual to think the cause is allergies.
“Allergies cause congestion, sneezing, itching, mucus running and dripping from the nose. This can be successfully treated with allergy medication.
“Allergy medication will not treat that thick protective mucus in the throat causing the need to constantly clear the throat.”
How to Get Rid of Stubborn Mucus in the Back of your Throat
Dr. Silvers explains, “You can start by reducing eating three hours before bed and cutting down on highly acidic foods.”
So if you normally hit the sack at around 11:30 pm, be sure that your last bite comes in by 8:30 pm.
Dr. Silvers continues: “If this does not work adequately you can try an OTC reflux suppressor until the symptoms resolve.
“And then continue to focus on dietary treatment measures to keep the reflux from happening and therefore the need for excessive mucus in the throat.”
Examples of over-the-counter reflux suppressors include antacids such as Rolaids, Mylanta and Maalox.
H2 blockers include Pepcid and Zantac.
Proton pump inhibitors include Nexium and Prilosec.
Ideally, though, you’ll strive to treat your acid reflux naturally.
An NYC expert in ear, nose and throat care, 
