Why do I have phlegm at the back of my throat?

[Velvetee]

I've posted before about my terrible snoring, but I have another problem, which I feel may be related to it.

I always feel like I have phlegm at the back of my throat, which just stays there. It's worse when I lie down and feels really congested at the back of my nose and throat, but it wont budge. I've mentioned this to my GP several times and she has given me nasal drops and sprays, which do absolutely nothing.

Has anyone else encountered this problem, or knows what it could be? perhaps I should ask to be referred to an ENT specialist.

[Bathsheba]

It could turn out to be a handsome prince. (sorry Velvetee,, thought I was in chatterbank!)

[Ethel]

If it were phlegm you would eventually cough it up.

I suspect you have globus pharyngeus, a very common and aggravating problem that can be related to stress.

It can feel worse when you lie down because you are conscious of it - you know it's there, and there is nothing to distract you.

However, if you believe it is phlegm avoid all dairy products for a week and see if that alleviates it.

No harm in asking for a referral to ENT.

[Jugglering]

You should definitely ask your gp about a referral to an ENT specialist. Regarding the snoring problem, have you tried *breathe right* strips ? They can relieve the problem by opening up the nasal passageways.

[Velvetee]

Yes Jugglering, have tried the nose strips, unfortunately they have no affect.

Thanks Ethel, I will read up on Globus Pharyngeus.

[weeal]

i have the same problem velvetee and have had all sorts of nasal sprays, have had several bouts of sinusitis but cant work out if its an allergy or not

its horrible

[meglet]

I've had this on occasion and, having got over a cold recently, have it at the moment too. I'm constantly clearing my throat. Have a look here:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/ask_the_doctor/pnd .shtml

[Velvetee]

I don't think mine is a PND, there is nothing to clear, just a feeling of mucous that is just stuck in one place and can't be cleared. It's very irritating.

[sqad617]

No idea how old you or knowledge of your past medical history, but it is essential that you get ENT specialist refferal, as these symptoms need investigation.

[daffy654]

I had the same problem last year and saw the ENT clinic,after having a camera put down my throat to check for any nasties they said I have GORD (gastro oesophageal reflux disease).I now have to take two capsules of a medication called Omeprazole daily and the problem has gone.I had no idea that I suffered with acid reflux as I never have indigestion or heartburn but apparently there are clear signs of the problem in the scarring on my oesophagus. It is caused in my case by a pain medication I take called Diclofenac.