phlem

I'm 25 female. For the last 3 years I daily have phlem in my throat or the feeling that I do. I'm always hocking it up. It is sometimes clear and foamy or yellow and thick. There is no coughing involved. It is irritating to me and others. What could this be? and what is the cure?
Thank you for your time.

[National Jewish]

Postnasal drip is drainage from the nose and sinuses dripping down the back of the throat.  There could be several reasons for this drainage.  One reason is an allergy.  A second reason is a non-allergic, non-infectious inflammation in the sinuses that can linger after a cold.  A third reason is chronic sinusitis.  You may experience the postnasal drip as a daily feeling of phlegm in your throat.  At this time there is no cure.  However there are many treatments that can help.

The fat content in dairy products can thicken phlegm.  Generally eating dairy products with less fat content is helpful.  Drinking plenty of water will help to thin the phlegm so that it moves more easily.  As long as you are not on a fluid restriction you should be drinking 6 to 8 8-ounce glasses of non-caffeine non-alcoholic fluid daily.  Clearing your throat can irritate your throat and make it sore.  When you feel the need to clear your throat sip some water to clear the mucus.

An antihistamine can dry up the postnasal drip.  However, it may make the phlegm thicker and more difficult to move.  A decongestant like Sudafed