Persistent Throat Discomfort: When to See an ENT Specialist

Q: Persistent Throat Discomfort: When to See an ENT Specialist

Hello： A sensation of a lump in the throat is often associated with chronic pharyngitis and is commonly related to conditions such as allergic rhinitis, post-nasal drip, sinusitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or smoking. <br>If the symptoms persist without improvement

Nasal issues

About 1 to 2 years ago, after having a cold, I have been experiencing a persistent sensation of something stuck in my throat.
I have visited an otolaryngologist multiple times (the last prescription can be found here: https://i.imgur.com/IOeqf2j.jpg).
However, due to my family's meal and sleep schedule, I often only take the medication 3 times, even though it is prescribed for 3 meals and bedtime.
What was originally a 3-day supply of medication sometimes takes me 4 to 5 days to finish (I’m not sure if this is related).
After seeing several doctors, my condition has not improved; my throat feels intermittently better and worse, but it still feels somewhat obstructed.

Previously, I occasionally experienced mild headaches, but recently I have been feeling pain around my eyes, which seems to be related to the eye sockets.
One morning, while still in bed, I felt discomfort radiating from my upper right teeth to the area near my right temple (and a bit in the eye socket as well).
It wasn't severe, but I had nasal congestion on the right side.
After getting up for an hour or two, I felt somewhat better.
The discomfort in my upper right teeth is near a location where I previously had a root canal, and I experience sensitivity when consuming cold items.

I used to occasionally feel a sensation of fullness in my ears, but that has diminished.
I don’t have much nasal discharge, and when I do, it is clear.
Should I see a dentist first? Additionally, I visited a hospital (formerly known as Da-Li Star Hospital) on July 20, 2018, where a doctor suspected a heart issue, but tests showed no problems.
(I apologize for the disorganized writing.)

Xu xx, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/13

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: A sensation of a lump in the throat is often associated with chronic pharyngitis and is commonly related to conditions such as allergic rhinitis, post-nasal drip, sinusitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or smoking.
If the symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist or a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/02/13

More Info

Persistent throat discomfort can be a frustrating and concerning issue, especially when it lingers for an extended period. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing throat discomfort for about one to two years following a cold, along with intermittent headaches and discomfort in your teeth and eye area. Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is essential to approach this situation methodically.

First and foremost, it is crucial to understand that persistent throat discomfort can arise from various causes, including post-nasal drip, allergies, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chronic sinusitis, or even more serious conditions such as throat infections or tumors. Since you have already consulted with an ENT specialist multiple times without significant improvement, it may be beneficial to consider a few key factors before deciding on the next steps.

1. Medication Adherence: You mentioned that you have not consistently taken your prescribed medications due to your schedule. It is vital to follow the prescribed treatment regimen as directed by your healthcare provider. Inconsistent medication use can hinder recovery and prolong symptoms. If you find it challenging to adhere to the medication schedule, consider discussing this with your doctor to explore alternative treatment options or adjustments.

2. Symptom Tracking: Keeping a detailed record of your symptoms can provide valuable insights for your healthcare provider. Note when your throat discomfort worsens, any associated symptoms (like headaches or dental pain), and any potential triggers (such as certain foods or activities). This information can help your doctor make a more accurate diagnosis.

3. Dental Evaluation: Given your mention of discomfort in your teeth and the area around your temples, it may be wise to consult a dentist. Dental issues, such as infections or problems with previous dental work (like root canals), can cause referred pain that manifests as discomfort in the throat or head. A thorough dental examination can rule out any underlying dental problems contributing to your symptoms.

4. Further ENT Evaluation: If your symptoms persist despite following your treatment plan and addressing dental concerns, it may be necessary to return to an ENT specialist for further evaluation. This could include additional diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies (like a CT scan) or a laryngoscopy, to visualize the throat and identify any abnormalities that may not have been apparent in previous visits.

5. Consider Other Specialists: If your symptoms are multifaceted, involving dental, ENT, and possibly neurological components (given your headaches and eye discomfort), it may be beneficial to consult other specialists. A neurologist can evaluate the headaches and any potential connections to your throat discomfort, while an allergist may help identify any underlying allergies contributing to your symptoms.

6. Lifestyle Modifications: In addition to medical evaluations, consider lifestyle changes that may alleviate your symptoms. Staying hydrated, avoiding irritants (such as smoke or strong odors), and managing stress can positively impact throat discomfort. If you suspect GERD, dietary modifications and avoiding late-night eating may also be beneficial.

In summary, persistent throat discomfort warrants a comprehensive approach that includes consistent medication adherence, symptom tracking, dental evaluation, and possibly further ENT assessment. If your symptoms continue to be bothersome, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these concerns with the appropriate specialists will help you find relief and improve your quality of life.

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