Persistent Throat Discomfort: Hoarseness and Mucus Sensation

Hoarseness and a thick sensation of foreign body in the throat?

Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing discomfort in my throat, with a sensation of a foreign body.
I went to a hospital for examination and took medication for two months without improvement.
The doctor suggested a pulmonary function test, which came back normal.
However, the sensation of a foreign body in my throat persists (this sensation is quite pronounced and feels very strong, but it does not affect my eating).
When I cough forcefully, I can expel thick phlegm that is often light yellow in color.
I have also been experiencing prolonged hoarseness, voice breaks, followed by nasal congestion, tinnitus, and headaches.
I am unsure if these symptoms are interrelated, but I am now uncertain whether I should return for a follow-up appointment.
Doctor, what do you think about this situation? What kind of symptoms am I experiencing, and should I continue to seek treatment at the original hospital?

joan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/04

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if you are experiencing persistent throat discomfort, it is commonly caused by chronic pharyngitis.
You may want to visit the ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) department and the Gastroenterology department at the hospital for further examination and treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the ENT Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/02/04

More Info

Persistent throat discomfort, particularly when accompanied by sensations of mucus and hoarseness, can be quite distressing. Your symptoms, including the sensation of a foreign body in the throat, persistent hoarseness, and the production of thick, yellowish mucus, suggest a few potential underlying issues that warrant further exploration.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that the throat and its associated structures, including the larynx (voice box), pharynx, and nasal passages, can be affected by various conditions. The symptoms you describe could be indicative of chronic laryngitis, which is inflammation of the larynx often caused by factors such as prolonged vocal strain, irritants (like smoke or pollution), or infections. Chronic laryngitis can lead to hoarseness and a sensation of a lump in the throat.

Another possibility is post-nasal drip, where mucus from the nasal passages drips down the back of the throat, leading to irritation and discomfort. This can occur due to allergies, sinus infections, or even gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid irritates the throat. The presence of nasal congestion, ear ringing (tinnitus), and headaches may suggest that your symptoms are interconnected, possibly stemming from sinus issues or allergies.

Given that you have already undergone a lung function test and received medication without improvement, it may be beneficial to consider a few additional steps:
1. Consult an ENT Specialist: An Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist can perform a thorough examination of your throat and vocal cords, possibly using a laryngoscope to visualize any abnormalities. This examination can help rule out any structural issues or infections that may not have been apparent in previous evaluations.

2. Consider Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected, allergy testing can help identify specific triggers that may be contributing to your symptoms. Treatment may involve avoiding allergens or using antihistamines.

3. Evaluate for GERD: If you suspect that acid reflux might be contributing to your throat discomfort, discussing this with your healthcare provider is essential. They may recommend lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, or medications to manage reflux symptoms.

4. Hydration and Humidification: Ensuring adequate hydration and using a humidifier can help soothe throat irritation and thin mucus, making it easier to expel.

5. Voice Rest and Therapy: If vocal strain is a contributing factor, voice rest and possibly working with a speech therapist specializing in voice disorders may be beneficial.

6. Follow-Up Care: Since your symptoms have persisted despite treatment, it is crucial to return to your healthcare provider or the original hospital for further evaluation. Persistent symptoms warrant a comprehensive approach to identify the underlying cause and tailor an effective treatment plan.

In summary, your symptoms of persistent throat discomfort, hoarseness, and mucus sensation could be related to several interconnected issues, including chronic laryngitis, post-nasal drip, or GERD. A multidisciplinary approach involving an ENT specialist, potential allergy testing, and lifestyle modifications may provide relief. Do not hesitate to seek further medical advice, as persistent symptoms require thorough investigation to ensure appropriate management and care.

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