Differential Diagnosis for Chronic Phlegm in Throat
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Chronic Postnasal Drip: This condition, often due to allergies or a deviated septum, leads to the constant dripping of mucus from the back of the nose into the throat, causing a sensation of chronic phlegm.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus can irritate the throat, leading to increased mucus production and the sensation of phlegm.
- Chronic Bronchitis: A type of COPD, chronic bronchitis involves inflammation of the bronchial tubes, leading to a persistent cough and mucus production.
- Allergic Rhinitis: Allergies can cause nasal congestion and increased mucus production, which can lead to a sensation of phlegm in the throat.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses can cause increased mucus production, which may drain into the throat.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lung Cancer: Although less common, lung cancer can cause chronic cough and mucus production. It's crucial to rule out this potentially life-threatening condition.
- Tuberculosis (TB): A bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, TB can cause chronic cough, mucus production, and other systemic symptoms.
- Pneumonia: Especially in vulnerable populations, pneumonia can present with chronic cough and phlegm production.
Rare Diagnoses
- Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder that leads to the production of thick, sticky mucus, which can cause respiratory and digestive problems.
- Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia: A rare genetic disorder affecting the cilia in the respiratory tract, leading to chronic respiratory infections and mucus accumulation.
- Vocal Cord Dysfunction: Abnormal movement of the vocal cords can cause symptoms similar to asthma, including chronic cough and sensation of phlegm.