What Are Some Possible Causes of a Cough Accompanied by Mucus in the Throat?

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In many people, a cough accompanied by mucus in the throat signals postnasal drip, according to WebMD. This condition has several possible causes, including illnesses, medical conditions, weather, foods or fumes. For example, colds, flu and sinus infections often lead to postnasal drip.

Other health conditions that are sometimes responsible for the throat mucus and cough combination are allergies, hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, and deviated septum or other nasal abnormality, states WebMD. Birth control pills, blood pressure prescriptions and other medications also lead to postnasal drip, according to MedicineNet.

Weather conditions, such as changing fronts, cold temperatures and very dry air, stimulate mucus production, as do spicy foods, WebMD explains. In certain individuals, postnasal drip develops from exposure to irritants, such as chemicals, perfumes, cleaning products and smoke.