How Do You Spell POSTNASAL CATARRH?

1. Postnasal catarrh, also known as postnasal drip, refers to a condition characterized by excessive mucus production by the cells lining the nasal passages. The excess mucus accumulates in the back of the throat and nasal cavities, leading to various uncomfortable symptoms.

   When a person experiences postnasal catarrh, the excess mucus drips down from the back of the nose to the throat, causing a persistent and irritating sensation. This can result in coughing, throat clearing, and a constant need to swallow. It often causes a feeling of something stuck in the throat, which is known as globus pharyngeus.

   There are several factors that can contribute to the development of postnasal catarrh, including allergies, sinus infections, colds, flu, certain medications, and environmental irritants. Allergies and sinus infections cause the nasal passages to become inflamed and produce more mucus than usual, while colds, flu, and irritants can also trigger excessive mucus production.

   Treatment for postnasal catarrh typically depends on the underlying cause. It may involve addressing allergies or sinus infections, using saline nasal sprays or rinses to help clear the excess mucus, and taking over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants to reduce inflammation and congestion. In some cases, nasal corticosteroid sprays or prescription medications may be necessary to control symptoms.

   Postnasal catarrh can be a bothersome condition that may affect a person's quality of life, causing discomfort and difficulty in swallowing or speaking. Seeking medical attention is recommended to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment to alleviate symptoms and improve overall nasal health.

2. Chronic rhinopharyngitis.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for POSTNASAL CATARRH

The term "postnasal catarrh" has a straightforward etymology:

1. Post-: Prefix derived from Latin, meaning "after" or "behind".

2. Nasal: Adjective referring to the nose.

3. Catarrh: Noun borrowed from Greek "katarrhein", meaning "to flow down", which originally denoted inflammation and excessive secretion of mucus membranes.

Therefore, "postnasal catarrh" refers to the condition where excess mucus drips down from the nose into the throat, often causing throat irritation and coughing.