Managing Persistent Throat Pain: When to See an ENT Specialist

Re: Unilateral throat pain has persisted for one month?

Hello Doctor, thank you very much for your previous patient responses.
Below is the photo I took today: https://ibb.co/mKHu7T.
My throat pain has now turned into alternating pain in both tonsils, but: 1.
There is no cough, and swallowing saliva does not hurt.
2.
The pain is not constant for 24 hours, but it occurs intermittently, like a mild pain from a light poke.
3.
There is often a burning and tingling sensation in the tonsils and the hard palate.
4.
My body temperature ranges between 36.8°C and 37.2°C.
Previously, I saw an ENT doctor who prescribed two weeks of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication, but it seems I haven't fully recovered, as the main issue now is oral pain.
I consulted an oral surgeon, who initially suspected a fungal infection and prescribed "Miconazole oral suspension powder." I hope to effectively treat the oral pain first.
The doctor thinks my immune system is a bit weak.
I am concerned that visiting an ENT and taking medication might worsen the oral pain, so I would like to ask for your assistance in evaluating: 1.
Do my current symptoms require a visit to an ENT, or can I try to rely on my immune system to heal gradually without Western medicine? 2.
If I see an ENT, will the doctor prescribe antibiotics, or will they prescribe other types of medication? 3.
If my condition does not improve but also does not worsen, can I wait until the oral pain is treated (which I plan to do for two weeks) before seeing a doctor? Will this risk turning an acute condition into a chronic one? 4.
I found a mouth spray called Benzydamine online, which is said to relieve throat inflammation.
Would you recommend purchasing it on my own? 5.
I apologize, but could you please tell me what the second image in the link (https://ibb.co/mKHu7T) is? I have been curious about it and wonder if it needs attention.
Sorry for the many questions, and I look forward to your response.
Thank you!

liz, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/10

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello,
1.
If the oral surgeon has already prescribed medication, you may finish it and adjust your lifestyle habits, then observe the situation.

2.
The need for antibiotics primarily depends on the presence of a bacterial infection, which still requires a comprehensive assessment by a clinical physician.

3.
You can start by observing; if there is no improvement, you will need to seek medical attention again.

4.
You can use an oral spray containing that ingredient to relieve pain.

5.
Initially, it appears to be lymphoid tissue or small salivary glands in the oral cavity; if there are no obvious ulcers or continuous enlargement, it should be normal tissue.

Wishing you safety and health,
Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare,
Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi

Reply Date: 2018/07/10

More Info

Managing persistent throat pain can be quite challenging, especially when symptoms fluctuate and do not respond to initial treatments. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing intermittent pain in your tonsils, a burning sensation in your palate, and have a history of antibiotic treatment without complete resolution of your symptoms. Here’s a comprehensive response to your questions:
1. Should you see an ENT specialist? Given that your symptoms have persisted despite a course of antibiotics and are now localized to your tonsils, it would be prudent to consult an ENT specialist. While your symptoms may not seem severe (no cough, no constant pain), the fact that they have not resolved with initial treatment suggests that there may be an underlying issue that requires further evaluation. An ENT can perform a thorough examination, possibly including a laryngoscopy, to assess the condition of your throat and tonsils more closely.

2. Will the ENT prescribe antibiotics? If the ENT determines that your symptoms are due to a bacterial infection, they may prescribe antibiotics. However, if they suspect a viral infection or another cause (such as allergies or irritants), they may recommend other treatments. It's also possible they could suggest a different class of antibiotics if they believe the initial treatment was ineffective.

3. Can you wait to see the ENT? If your symptoms remain stable and do not worsen, it may be reasonable to wait until your oral pain is treated. However, if you notice any changes, such as increased pain, difficulty swallowing, or fever, you should seek medical attention sooner. Chronic throat pain can sometimes lead to complications, so monitoring your symptoms is essential.

4. Is Benzydamine mouth spray advisable? Benzydamine is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can help relieve pain and inflammation in the throat. It is generally safe for use as a symptomatic treatment for throat pain. However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication, especially if you are currently undergoing treatment for other conditions.

5. Regarding the image you shared: Without being able to view the image directly, I can’t provide specific feedback. However, if you notice any unusual lesions, discolorations, or persistent changes in your throat or mouth, it’s essential to bring these to the attention of your healthcare provider. They can assess whether these findings are significant or require further investigation.

In summary, while you may consider waiting to see if your oral pain resolves, it is advisable to consult an ENT specialist given your persistent throat symptoms. They can provide a more accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. Additionally, using symptomatic treatments like Benzydamine may help alleviate discomfort in the meantime. Always prioritize your health and seek medical advice when in doubt.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Persistent Throat Pain: When to Seek ENT and Mental Health Help

Hello doctor, I engaged in oral sex with a sex worker at the end of August 2004 without protection, which led to persistent pain in my oral cavity, throat, and tongue. Subsequently, I visited an otolaryngology clinic where the physician performed an endoscopic examination and a s...

Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello, after a detailed medical history inquiry and physical examination, regarding the possible diagnoses of viral pharyngitis and bacterial pharyngitis, as well as chronic pharyngitis, anti-inflammatory medications and antibiotics were administered. With unsatisfactory results ...

Persistent Throat Pain: When to Seek ENT Specialist Care

Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing a sore throat for about three weeks now. For the first two days, it was just a sore throat, but on the third day, it became severe (it hurts to swallow, eat, and talk). After that, I started to have greenish phlegm and a cough, but the sore...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: It is common for throat inflammation to be caused by a viral infection. If symptoms persist without improvement, it is recommended to continue follow-up treatment at the clinic. If necessary, the clinic physician will refer you to a hospital for further examination. Wishin...

Persistent Throat Discomfort: When to Seek ENT Help

Hello, doctor: I have been experiencing a sensation of something stuck in my throat for over a decade. I have seen numerous otolaryngologists, undergone five nasal endoscopies, and more than ten gastroscopies. I also had a low-dose lung MRI. My company provides annual health chec...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the situation you described may be chronic pharyngitis. It is recommended to undergo laryngoscopy to rule out any masses and to consider medication treatment. In addition to medication, please pay attention to the following daily life precautions: avoid lying down for two ...

Understanding Throat Inflammation: When to See an ENT or Gastroenterologist

If you suspect you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affecting your throat, you should consider seeing a gastroenterologist. However, since you are experiencing throat inflammation and unusual sensations in your ears, such as a feeling similar to nasal congestion when s...

Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, based on your description, the symptoms of the upper respiratory tract appear to be quite severe. It is recommended that you seek treatment from an otolaryngology specialist. Sincerely, Dr. Chien-Chih Chen, Physician at Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health...