Tele-triage for Postnasal Drip in Children

Audience: pediatric

Postnasal drip occurs when excess mucus accumulates in the back of the nose and throat, causing discomfort such as coughing or throat clearing. In children, it is often caused by common colds, allergies, or mild infections. Telemedicine can help parents understand symptoms and decide if home care is enough or if in-person evaluation is needed. Many cases of postnasal drip improve with simple remedies and do not require a doctor's visit. However, some signs may indicate a more serious problem requiring urgent care. Tele-triage allows healthcare providers to assess symptoms remotely, offer advice, and guide families on next steps. This approach helps reduce unnecessary clinic visits while ensuring children get timely care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 39°C or 102°F) lasting more than 3 days — arrange in-person evaluation.
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down — seek urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild postnasal drip symptoms.
• Guidance on home care and symptom management.
• Determining if symptoms require in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations such as severe breathing difficulty.
• Physical examination requiring specialized equipment.
• Procedures like nasal endoscopy or imaging tests.

What is Postnasal Drip?

Postnasal drip happens when mucus from the nose drips down the back of the throat. This can cause coughing, throat clearing, or a feeling of something stuck in the throat. In children, it usually comes from colds, allergies, or mild sinus infections. It is common and often improves on its own.

When to Use Telemedicine for Postnasal Drip

Telemedicine is useful for an initial check when your child has symptoms like a runny nose, mild cough, or throat irritation. A healthcare provider can ask about symptoms, look for warning signs, and suggest home care tips. This saves travel time and reduces exposure to other illnesses.

Home Care Tips for Postnasal Drip

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When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has difficulty breathing, high fever, severe or worsening symptoms, or appears very unwell, seek in-person medical care promptly. Persistent symptoms lasting more than 10 days or signs of ear pain or swelling also warrant evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit, have ready:

What to Expect After the Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider may suggest home care steps, prescribe medications if needed, or recommend an in-person visit. Follow their instructions carefully and watch for any new or worsening symptoms. If symptoms do not improve as expected, contact your provider again.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure a stable internet connection and a quiet environment.
• Have your child's symptom history ready, including duration and severity.
• Prepare any medications or treatments currently used.
• Be ready to show your child's throat or nose on camera if requested.
• List any questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's home care recommendations.
• Administer prescribed medications as directed.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for improvement or worsening.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms develop.
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits if advised.

FAQs

What causes postnasal drip in children?

Postnasal drip in children is often caused by colds, allergies, sinus infections, or irritants like smoke. These conditions increase mucus production, which then drips down the throat.

Can postnasal drip cause a cough?

Yes, the mucus dripping down the throat can trigger coughing or throat clearing as the body tries to clear the mucus.

Is postnasal drip contagious?

Postnasal drip itself is not contagious, but the underlying causes like colds or infections can be contagious to others.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

If your child has trouble breathing, persistent high fever, severe vomiting, or appears very ill, seek emergency care right away.

Can allergies cause postnasal drip?

Yes, allergies can cause inflammation and increased mucus production leading to postnasal drip.

Sources

1. Postnasal Drip — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Common Cold in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Sinus Infection (Sinusitis) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Allergic Rhinitis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If your child’s symptoms worsen or you have concerns, please seek care from a healthcare professional promptly.