Throat Issues: When to Seek ENT Help for Swallowing Problems

Q: Throat Issues: When to Seek ENT Help for Swallowing Problems

Hello： Chronic pharyngitis related to gastroesophageal reflux is common. <br>It is advisable to drink more water and avoid coffee, tea, and sugary foods. <br>When experiencing a sensation of a foreign body, drinking more water can help alleviate that feeling. <br>If symptoms do n

Throat issues

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing some discomfort in my stomach over the past few days, with mild acid reflux.
To alleviate this, I tried elevating my pillow while sleeping.
The symptoms improved, but after a few days, I noticed something unusual when swallowing.
I discovered a protrusion on the pharyngeal wall just behind the uvula.
When I touch or press on this protrusion, it feels somewhat bony, similar to the sensation of a tooth that is still encased in gum and is about to erupt.
Additionally, when swallowing, the uvula comes into contact with this protrusion, causing an uncomfortable sensation.
I do not have a cough, and there is no blood in my phlegm or nasal discharge.
Swallowing is smooth, and there are no lumps in my throat; however, the contact between the uvula and the protrusion still causes discomfort.
What should I do about this situation? Thank you.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/24

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: Chronic pharyngitis related to gastroesophageal reflux is common.
It is advisable to drink more water and avoid coffee, tea, and sugary foods.
When experiencing a sensation of a foreign body, drinking more water can help alleviate that feeling.
If symptoms do not improve, please consult an otolaryngologist or a gastroenterologist for examination and treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/08/24

More Info

When it comes to throat issues, particularly those related to swallowing, it is essential to understand the symptoms and when to seek help from an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. Your description of experiencing discomfort in your throat, particularly with a noticeable protrusion on the pharyngeal wall, raises several important considerations.

First, it’s crucial to recognize that swallowing difficulties can arise from various causes, including anatomical changes, inflammation, or even gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Given that you mentioned experiencing some gastric discomfort and acid reflux, it’s possible that these issues could be contributing to your throat discomfort. The act of acid reflux can lead to irritation and inflammation in the throat, which might explain the sensation you are feeling.

The protrusion you described could be a few different things. It might be a normal anatomical variation, a result of inflammation, or even a benign growth such as a polyp or cyst. The sensation of something "catching" or "blocking" when you swallow could be due to the interaction between this protrusion and your uvula (the small fleshy piece hanging at the back of your throat).
Here are some key points to consider regarding your symptoms:
1. Duration and Persistence: If the sensation persists or worsens over a few days, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Persistent symptoms could indicate an underlying issue that requires evaluation.

2. Associated Symptoms: While you mentioned that you do not have coughing, blood in mucus, or significant swelling, it’s important to monitor for any new symptoms. If you begin to experience difficulty breathing, severe pain, or any other alarming symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention.

3. Self-Care Measures: In the meantime, you can continue to elevate your head while sleeping to help with any acid reflux symptoms. Additionally, avoiding spicy or acidic foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating can help manage reflux symptoms.

4. When to See an ENT: You should consider seeing an ENT specialist if:
- The protrusion does not resolve or continues to cause discomfort.

- You experience any changes in your voice or difficulty swallowing that worsens.

- You have concerns about the nature of the protrusion, especially if it seems to be growing or changing.

5. Diagnostic Evaluation: An ENT specialist may perform a thorough examination, which could include a laryngoscopy to visualize the throat and assess the protrusion directly. This examination can help determine the nature of the protrusion and whether any treatment is necessary.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may not seem severe at the moment, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to throat issues. Seeking an evaluation from an ENT specialist can provide peace of mind and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Remember, your health is paramount, and it’s important to advocate for yourself when something feels off.

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