Throat Discomfort After Oral Sex: Possible Causes and Next Steps

Discomfort in the throat after oral sex?

Hello doctor, a week ago I performed unprotected oral sex on a male friend, and now I feel a sensation of something stuck in my throat.
My tongue and uvula keep touching, and I suspect it might be related to an enlarged soft palate.
Could this possibly be gonococcal pharyngitis or a lesion from oral syphilis? If I need to see a doctor, should I go to an ENT specialist or an infectious disease specialist? Thank you.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/01

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, the situation you described may be due to pharyngeal swelling caused by inflammation, allergies, or conditions such as gonococcal pharyngitis/oral syphilis, among others.
It is advisable to seek medical attention (either from an otolaryngologist or an infectious disease specialist) for examination and treatment, which can help improve your symptoms.
Wishing you safety and health.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun,
Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/08/01

More Info

Throat discomfort following oral sex can arise from various causes, and it's essential to consider both infectious and non-infectious factors. Given your recent sexual activity, it is prudent to explore the possibility of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea or syphilis, which can indeed cause pharyngeal symptoms.

1. Possible Causes:
- Gonococcal Pharyngitis: This is an infection of the throat caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria. Symptoms may include a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and a sensation of something being stuck in the throat.

- Syphilis: This STI can also manifest in the throat, particularly in its secondary stage, leading to lesions or sores that may cause discomfort.

- Other STIs: Other infections, such as chlamydia or herpes, can also affect the throat and cause similar symptoms.

- Non-infectious Causes: Allergies, irritants (such as smoke or strong odors), or even anxiety can lead to a sensation of a lump in the throat (globus sensation).

2. Next Steps:
- Consultation: It is advisable to see a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. Given the potential for STIs, you should consider visiting either an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist or an Infectious Disease specialist. An ENT can evaluate your throat for any physical abnormalities or infections, while an Infectious Disease specialist can provide insight into STIs and recommend appropriate testing.

- Testing: Be prepared for a thorough examination, which may include throat swabs to test for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and other infections. Blood tests may also be necessary to check for syphilis and other STIs.

- Symptom Management: In the meantime, you can manage discomfort with warm saltwater gargles, over-the-counter pain relievers, and staying hydrated. Avoid irritants such as smoking or alcohol, which can exacerbate throat discomfort.

3. Prevention:
- Moving forward, consider practicing safer sex, including the use of barriers such as condoms or dental dams during oral sex, to reduce the risk of STIs. Regular STI screenings are also recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly when engaging in unprotected sex.

4. Conclusion:
- While throat discomfort can be caused by various factors, given your recent sexual activity, it is essential to rule out STIs. Prompt medical evaluation and testing are crucial to ensure appropriate treatment and to prevent potential complications. Remember that early detection and treatment of STIs can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of transmission to partners.

In summary, your symptoms warrant a medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Don't hesitate to seek medical attention, as addressing these concerns early can lead to better health outcomes.

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