Sinus drainage is the result of the common cold, allergies, the flu, hay fever, bacterial infections, sinusitis or a head injury, according to MedlinePlus. Sinus drainage is any mucus that exits the nasal cavity either through the nose or down the back of the throat. When a person is sick or experiences sinus inflammation of any kind, the result is excessive mucus production that manifests in various symptoms. The most common symptoms associated with sinus drainage are sneezing, postnasal drip, a runny nose, sore throat and coughing.
Sneezing
According to heathline.com, sneezing is a common symptom associated with sinus drainage. The excessive mucus in the nose can cause the nose to itch, provoking sneezing fits. Sneezing is the body's way of attempting to expel the extra mucus from the body. Sneezing may also occur if the sinus drainage is the result of allergies. Allergies can make the nose and throat itchy, leading to excessive sneezing.
Postnasal Drip
According to the Eyes, Nose and Throat Specialists of Corpus Christi, postnasal drip is a condition where mucus accumulates in the back of the throat. The accumulation of mucus results in a slow and constant dripping of mucus down the throat into the stomach. Postnasal drip can cause chest congestion and an upset stomach. The ENT of Corpus Christi states that increased thin secretions are commonly the result of allergies and the beginning stages of a cold, while thick, discolored secretions result from weather changes or signs of an infection.
Runny Nose
When the nasal cavity produces thin secretions, the first place it looks to exit the body is the nose. A runny nose is a constant streaming of nasal discharge. It may help to blow the nose frequently, but that can lead to soreness around the nostrils. Healthline.com states that the use of antihistamines and decongestants can help stop a runny nose.
Throat Issues
Postnasal drip can result in throat irritation or a sore throat, according to the ENT of Corpus Christi. Another common throat issue from sinus drainage is difficulty swallowing and talking. Mucus buildup may prevent food from being swallowed properly. The excessive mucus can also inhibit a person's voice box from functionally properly.
Cough
The mucus in the back of the throat can lead to constant coughing. This is the body's attempt to clear the throat. If mucus stays in the throat for a long time, it can lead to infection that can spread into a person's chest, sinuses or ears, according to MedlinePlus.
