Catarrh

Overview

Catarrh is the buildup of mucus in the back of the nose, throat, or airways. It happens when the lining of these passages becomes swollen and produces extra mucus, which can make you feel blocked or like you constantly need to clear your throat.

Yes, catarrh is very common. Most people experience it at some point, usually with colds or when they have allergies like hay fever.

It can affect people of all ages, but it is more likely in people who smoke, have allergies, or are exposed to dusty or dry air. It is also more common in children and older adults, who may be more sensitive to mucus buildup.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A feeling of mucus dripping down the back of the throat (post-nasal drip)
• A blocked or stuffy nose
• A frequent urge to clear your throat
• A cough that gets worse at night or when lying down
• A sore or scratchy throat
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the face or head

Symptoms in children

• A blocked or runny nose that lasts longer than a usual cold
• Difficulty feeding or sleeping because of nasal stuffiness
• A cough that sounds wet or gurgly
• Irritability or crying from throat discomfort

Symptoms in older adults

• Dry mouth or throat from mouth breathing
• A sensation of something stuck in the throat
• A hoarse voice or frequent throat clearing
• Headache or a heavy feeling in the face

Causes

Main causes

• Infections such as the common cold or flu
• Allergic rhinitis (reactions to pollen, dust mites, or pet dander)
• Irritants like cigarette smoke, strong fumes, or air pollution
• Gastro-oesophageal reflux (stomach acid moving up into the throat)
• Changes in temperature or humidity, like moving from cold to warm air

Risk factors

• Smoking or being around secondhand smoke
• Living or working in dry, dusty, or air-conditioned environments
• Having hay fever or other allergies
• A history of sinus problems or nasal polyps
• Age, as very young children and older adults may get more stubborn mucus

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If catarrh lasts more than 3 weeks despite self-care
• If you have a high fever or feel very unwell
• If you have pain in your face or teeth that does not go away
• If you bring up blood or mucus that is dark green or yellow for more than a few days

Book a routine appointment if:

• If catarrh keeps coming back and affects your sleep or daily life
• If you also have asthma, eczema, or other allergy symptoms
• If you have a known condition like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and catarrh is making it worse

Diagnosis

A doctor will usually diagnose catarrh by asking about your symptoms and checking your nose, throat, and breathing. They may ask about allergies, your home or work environment, and whether you smoke.

Tests that may be done

• A basic examination using a small light to look up your nose
• A stethoscope check of your chest to listen for wheezing or other sounds
• If needed, allergy tests, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, to see if an allergy is causing the catarrh
• In rare cases, a nasal endoscopy, where a flexible tube with a camera is passed gently into the nose

What to expect at your appointment

The appointment is usually quick and painless. The doctor may ask you to breathe through your nose or open your mouth wide. If further tests are needed, they will explain what they are for and when you will get the results.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on easing symptoms and addressing what is causing the extra mucus. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, but many people improve with simple self-care and, if needed, treatments for allergies or infections.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of water to keep mucus thin and easier to clear
• Use steam from a warm shower or a bowl of hot water to moisten your airways
• Try a saline (salt water) nasal spray or rinse to wash away mucus and irritants
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Raise the head of your bed slightly to help reduce mucus dripping down your throat at night
• Gargle with warm salt water to soothe a sore throat

Medical treatments

Your doctor may suggest treatments that you can buy without a prescription, such as decongestants or antihistamines (for allergies), or they may prescribe treatments like corticosteroid nasal sprays to reduce swelling. They might also recommend treatments for acid reflux if that is the cause. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist what is safe and suitable for you, especially if you have other health conditions.

Living with this condition

Catarrh can feel frustrating, but small habits can make a big difference. Keep tissues handy, clear your throat gently instead of forcing it, and try to hold a warm drink to ease the feeling. If you use nasal rinses, follow the instructions carefully.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep your living spaces dust-free and well ventilated
• Use a humidifier in your bedroom if the air is dry
• Wash your hands often to reduce risk of colds and infections
• Manage allergies by keeping windows closed during high pollen days and washing bedding regularly

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and plenty of fluids can help keep mucus thinner. Regular, gentle exercise such as walking may help clear your airways, but avoid very vigorous activity if you are feeling unwell.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with constant throat clearing or a blocked nose can be tiring and embarrassing, and it may disturb your sleep, which can affect your mood. It is normal to feel frustrated. If you are feeling low or anxious about it, talk to your doctor or someone you trust.

Prevention

You can reduce your chances of getting catarrh by avoiding known triggers. If you smoke, quitting is one of the most helpful things you can do. If you have allergies, reducing exposure to allergens can help. Good hand hygiene can also reduce the number of colds that lead to catarrh.

Vaccines

There is no specific vaccine for catarrh, but staying up to date with regular vaccines (for example, the flu vaccine) can help prevent some infections that cause it.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for catarrh. If you have ongoing symptoms, a doctor can assess you and rule out or treat any underlying condition.

Complications

If left untreated

• A persistent build-up of mucus can lead to sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses), which causes facial pain and pressure
• It can also lead to ear infections in children due to blocked tubes
• Long-term post-nasal drip can cause a chronic cough, hoarse voice, or a constant sore throat

Long-term outlook

Most people recover fully from catarrh, especially once the underlying cause is treated. For those with chronic catarrh, managing triggers and using the right self-care or treatments can greatly reduce symptoms. It is not life-threatening, and with the right support, most people learn to keep it under control.

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