postnasal drip (PND) [L, post + nasus, nose; AS, dryppan] , a drop-by-drop discharge of nasal mucus into the posterior pharynx caused by rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, or hypersecretion by the nasopharyngeal mucosa. It is often accompanied by a feeling of obstruction, an unpleasant taste, and fetid breath. Methods of treatment include the application of drops or sprays of phenylephrine or ephedrine sulfate to constrict blood vessels and reduce hyperemia, sinus irrigation to improve drainage, and use of appropriate antibiotics. Therapy for allergies may be indicated in some cases, and surgery may be required if the nasal passages are obstructed by polyps or a deviated septum.
