Laser Surgery for Chronic Pharyngitis: When to Seek Further Medical Advice?

Laser surgery. Chronic pharyngitis?

1.
I previously had some lymphoid hyperplasia at the base of my tongue, and due to its proximity to my molars, I underwent laser excision to prevent recurrent biting.
However, it has been a month, and the wound has not yet healed.
Although it is not painful, there are still white marks present.
Should I return to the hospital for a follow-up examination?
2.
My throat is dry and swollen, and I experience mild pain when swallowing saliva, but I do not have any other cold symptoms.
This has been ongoing for over two weeks.
I visited a clinic, and the doctor suggested it might be chronic pharyngitis, but his attitude was somewhat dismissive.
Can chronic pharyngitis cause pain only on one side? How long does it typically take to resolve? I noticed a red, swollen area with a white head at the back of my throat near the uvula.
Should I seek a second opinion at another hospital, or should I continue to monitor the situation?

Shen Ma, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/04/05

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, the situation you described may be indicative of chronic pharyngitis.
It is recommended to undergo a laryngoscopy to rule out any masses and to consider medication treatment.
In addition to medication, please pay attention to the following daily living tips: avoid lying down for two hours after eating, and refrain from coffee, tea, cigarettes, alcohol, fried foods, and spicy foods, as these can help improve symptoms.
Regarding the non-healing wound and the white-headed red swelling at the back of the throat, this requires a physician's direct examination for further evaluation.
If necessary, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist again.
Wishing you peace and good health.

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

Reply Date: 2018/04/05

More Info

When considering laser surgery for chronic pharyngitis and related symptoms, it’s essential to understand the potential complications and when to seek further medical advice. Based on your description, it seems you have undergone a laser procedure to remove lymphoid tissue at the base of your tongue, and you are experiencing some ongoing symptoms. Let’s address your concerns step by step.

1. Wound Healing Post-Laser Surgery: It is not uncommon for surgical wounds, especially in the oral cavity, to take time to heal. The presence of white tissue at the surgical site could be a sign of healing tissue (such as fibrin or granulation tissue), but if it persists for more than a month without improvement, it is advisable to return to your healthcare provider for a follow-up. They can assess whether the healing process is normal or if there are any signs of infection or other complications that need to be addressed.

2. Symptoms of Chronic Pharyngitis: Your symptoms of throat dryness, swelling, and mild pain when swallowing could indeed be indicative of chronic pharyngitis. It is possible for such conditions to cause unilateral pain, especially if there is localized inflammation or irritation. Chronic pharyngitis can result from various factors, including allergies, irritants (like smoke or pollution), or infections. The duration of symptoms can vary widely; some patients may experience relief within a few weeks, while others may require more extended treatment.

3. Observation of New Symptoms: The appearance of a white-headed, red, swollen area at the back of your throat is concerning. This could represent a number of conditions, including a persistent infection, a cyst, or even a more serious issue. Given that you have already been experiencing symptoms for over two weeks, and considering the recent surgical history, it would be prudent to seek a second opinion or further evaluation at a different facility. A thorough examination, possibly including imaging or a biopsy, may be necessary to determine the nature of this new finding.

4. When to Seek Further Medical Advice: You should seek further medical advice if:
- The surgical site does not show signs of improvement or healing after one month.

- You experience increased pain, swelling, or redness around the surgical site.

- Your throat symptoms worsen or do not improve after two weeks.

- You notice any new or concerning symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, fever, or significant changes in swallowing.

In summary, while some post-operative symptoms can be expected, prolonged healing and new symptoms warrant further investigation. It’s essential to advocate for your health and seek additional opinions if you feel your concerns are not being adequately addressed. Chronic pharyngitis can be managed effectively with the right treatment, and understanding the underlying cause is crucial for recovery. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare providers and do not hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel it is necessary.

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