17 Reasons For Prolonged Cough

11. Postnasal Drip

Most people experience postnasal drip at one point or another. This is when your glands produce excessive mucus to fight infection, act as a filter, or moisten your nasal membranes. The excess mucus may pool at the back of your throat, causing you to swallow it without even knowing.  This may result in a persistent cough that is worse at night. Postnasal drip may be caused by a number of things, but there are home treatments that can relieve your symptoms, including your cough.