Discomfort When Swallowing Saliva: Causes and Solutions - Otolaryngology

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Discomfort when swallowing saliva can be a distressing experience, and it’s understandable that you are seeking clarity on the causes and potential solutions. Based on your description, it seems you have been dealing with this issue for a couple of months, and despite seeing multiple specialists, you have not found a definitive resolution.
The symptoms you describe, particularly the discomfort when swallowing saliva, could be attributed to several underlying conditions. The initial diagnosis of glossitis (inflammation of the tongue) you received may be one possibility, but chronic inflammation or irritation in the throat or esophagus could also be contributing factors. Chronic inflammation can arise from various causes, including allergies, irritants (such as smoke), infections, or even gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid irritates the esophagus.

Your smoking habit is particularly relevant here, as tobacco can irritate the mucous membranes of the throat and mouth, potentially exacerbating any existing inflammation. Additionally, smoking can lead to dryness in the throat, which may explain the "dry" sensation you experience, especially when waking up at night.
The fact that your discomfort seems to worsen throughout the day and improves after eating could suggest that the act of swallowing food temporarily alleviates the discomfort by stimulating saliva production and providing a soothing effect to the throat. However, this does not address the underlying issue, which may still require further investigation.

Given that your symptoms have persisted for over two months and have not significantly improved despite treatment, it would be advisable to return to a healthcare provider for a more comprehensive evaluation. A visit to a larger hospital or a specialized clinic may be warranted, where they can conduct more detailed examinations, such as an endoscopy, to visualize the throat and esophagus directly. This can help rule out any structural abnormalities, chronic infections, or other conditions that may not have been evident in previous assessments.

In the meantime, there are several strategies you can employ to help manage your symptoms:
1. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day to keep your throat moist. This can help alleviate the dry sensation you experience, especially at night.

2. Humidifier: Using a humidifier in your bedroom can help maintain moisture in the air, which may reduce throat dryness during sleep.

3. Avoid Irritants: If possible, try to reduce or eliminate smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, as these can aggravate throat discomfort.

4. Dietary Adjustments: Pay attention to your diet. Spicy, acidic, or very hot foods can irritate the throat and may exacerbate your symptoms. Opt for softer, more soothing foods while you are experiencing discomfort.

5. Medication: Continue to follow your healthcare provider's advice regarding medications. If you are prescribed anti-inflammatory or pain-relief medications, ensure you take them as directed.

6. Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate physical symptoms, so consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle exercise into your routine.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may not indicate a severe condition, persistent discomfort warrants further investigation to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed. Consulting with a specialist who can perform a thorough examination and possibly recommend imaging or other diagnostic tests will be crucial in determining the best course of action for your recovery.