Persistent Throat Dryness and Mouth Sores: Possible ENT Issues Explained - Otolaryngology

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Persistent throat dryness and mouth sores can be indicative of several underlying conditions, particularly when they last for an extended period, as in your case. It’s important to consider various factors that could contribute to these symptoms, including environmental, dietary, and possible systemic issues.

Firstly, the presence of mouth sores or blisters for over a year without pain is unusual and warrants further investigation. These could be aphthous ulcers, which are common but typically painful, or they could be indicative of a more chronic condition such as oral lichen planus or even a viral infection. The fact that you have experienced throat dryness and swelling, along with nighttime coughing, suggests that there may be an inflammatory process at play, possibly involving the upper respiratory tract.

Your symptoms of throat dryness and swelling could be related to several factors. One common cause is xerostomia, or dry mouth, which can occur due to various reasons, including dehydration, medication side effects, or autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome. This condition affects the salivary glands and can lead to persistent dryness in the mouth and throat, making swallowing difficult and increasing the risk of oral infections.

The throat inflammation you mentioned could be due to a viral or bacterial infection, but since you have been treated with antibiotics without improvement, it raises the possibility of a chronic inflammatory condition or even an allergy. Allergic reactions can cause throat swelling and dryness, particularly if you are exposed to allergens such as pollen, dust, or certain foods.

Additionally, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) could be a contributing factor, especially since you mentioned experiencing stomach pain after meals. GERD can lead to acid irritation of the throat, causing dryness and inflammation, which may explain your symptoms of throat discomfort and coughing at night.

Given that your symptoms have persisted despite treatment, it would be advisable to follow up with an ENT specialist for a thorough examination. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as a laryngoscopy, to visualize the throat and assess for any abnormalities. A referral to a dentist or oral specialist may also be beneficial to evaluate the mouth sores more closely.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to a simple throat infection, the persistence and nature of your symptoms suggest that a more comprehensive evaluation is necessary. Conditions such as xerostomia, allergic reactions, GERD, or even autoimmune disorders could be contributing to your throat dryness and mouth sores. It is crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.