Question 1

I always feel mucus in my throat — can it be treated?

Accepted Answer

Yes, post-nasal drip is a typical condition where Korean medicine works well. Herbs and acupuncture restoring nasal cavity and pharyngeal mucosa improve it.

Question 2

Phlegm is heavy — does treatment differ by phlegm color?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in Korean medicine, phlegm color and consistency indicate cold/heat patterns. Clear watery phlegm = cold pattern; yellow sticky phlegm = heat pattern, with different prescriptions.

Question 3

What problems arise from long-standing post-nasal drip?

Accepted Answer

Chronic post-nasal drip can cause sore throat, chronic cough, halitosis, indigestion. Treating root nasal/sinus inflammation also relieves accompanying symptoms.

Question 4

How long does post-nasal drip treatment take?

Accepted Answer

Mild: 4–6 weeks; chronic post-nasal drip: 2–3 months recommended. As nasal mucosa function recovers, the sensation of phlegm dripping gradually reduces.

Question 5

Can sinusitis-induced post-nasal drip also be treated?

Accepted Answer

Yes, herbs reduce sinus inflammation and promote drainage; acupuncture improves nasal ventilation. Korean medicine often works well for chronic sinusitis resistant to antibiotics.

Question 6

Phlegm is especially severe in the morning — why?

Accepted Answer

During sleep, sinus secretions accumulate and drain together upon waking. Also, dry airway mucosa overnight thickens phlegm. Treating both nasal and lung function helps.

Question 7

Is it bad to swallow phlegm?

Accepted Answer

A small amount is usually fine, but continuously swallowing infectious phlegm can burden the stomach. It's important to treat the root cause of phlegm production.

Phlegm & Post-nasal Drip