Throat Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention

Fear of growths in the throat?

I previously discussed with my doctor that I accidentally inhaled the toes of a massage therapist (only the toes), which led to a throat inflammation.
I underwent antibiotic treatment and was fully healed by January 21.
However, since then, my throat condition has been persistent, and I often experience intermittent neuralgia (in the trigeminal nerve or jaw) and a burning sensation, along with dry mouth.
I am now in the ninth week since the incident, and my symptoms have improved; the burning sensation and pain have subsided, but I still experience dry mouth, especially when I wake up at night.

As of now, I am approaching the end of the twelfth week.
On Monday (March 23), I reported to the clinic doctor that I sometimes feel a slight burning sensation in the upper palate and am concerned about the possibility of developing angular cheilitis.
After a visual examination, the doctor stated that there were no issues in my oral cavity and that I had not experienced any fever.

Could you please advise how many more weeks I should wait before seeking further examination at a major hospital regarding my oral symptoms (intermittent nerve pain, burning in the right upper palate and throat, and blisters on my lips when drinking hot water)? Thank you!

Xiao Wu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/03/25

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if you still feel uneasy, it is recommended to visit the Infectious Disease Department at the hospital for further examination.
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: 2015/03/25

More Info

When it comes to throat issues and the symptoms you are experiencing, it is essential to understand the underlying causes and when to seek further medical attention. Based on your description, you have been dealing with persistent throat discomfort, including intermittent neuralgia (nerve pain) in the trigeminal area and a burning sensation, alongside dry mouth, which has lasted for over twelve weeks since the incident involving the toe.

Initially, it is important to recognize that throat inflammation can arise from various causes, including infections, allergies, irritants, or even trauma. In your case, the incident with the toe may have introduced bacteria, leading to an infection that was treated with antibiotics. While you reported improvement in some symptoms, the persistence of dry mouth and occasional burning sensations warrants further investigation.

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can be caused by several factors, including dehydration, medication side effects, or underlying health conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome or diabetes. It can also lead to complications such as difficulty swallowing, increased risk of dental issues, and oral infections. The burning sensation you describe, particularly in the upper palate and throat, could be related to nerve irritation or inflammation that may not have fully resolved after the initial infection.

Given that you have been experiencing these symptoms for an extended period, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. Here are some reasons why you should consider consulting a specialist, such as an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor:
1. Persistent Symptoms: Symptoms lasting beyond a few weeks, especially after an initial infection, should be evaluated to rule out any complications or chronic conditions.

2. Neurological Symptoms: The intermittent neuralgia you mentioned could indicate nerve involvement that may require further assessment, possibly including imaging studies like an MRI to rule out any structural issues.

3. Dry Mouth Management: A healthcare provider can help determine the cause of your dry mouth and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include saliva substitutes, medications to stimulate saliva production, or lifestyle changes.

4. Oral Examination: While your current doctor performed a visual inspection, a specialist may conduct a more thorough examination, including tests for infections or other conditions affecting the oral cavity.

5. Monitoring for Complications: Given your concerns about potential lesions or infections, it is crucial to monitor for any changes in your symptoms, especially if you notice new or worsening signs.

In terms of timing, it is generally advisable not to wait too long if symptoms persist or worsen. If you find that your quality of life is affected—such as difficulty sleeping due to dry mouth or pain—it is reasonable to seek a consultation sooner rather than later. Waiting for a specific number of weeks may not be necessary if you feel that your symptoms are not improving or are causing significant discomfort.

In conclusion, while some throat issues may resolve on their own, persistent symptoms, especially those involving pain, dryness, and neurological sensations, should be evaluated by a medical professional. Seeking a second opinion or further evaluation from an ENT specialist can provide you with the necessary insights and treatment options to address your concerns effectively. Your health and comfort are paramount, and timely intervention can lead to better outcomes.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Throat Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello Doctor: I am a 19-year-old college student. I wanted to ask online first to avoid occupying physical medical resources due to a moment of fear. Here’s my situation: about 2-3 weeks ago, I started feeling some difficulty when eating and swallowing saliva, but I'm not su...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the most common condition is still chronic pharyngitis. If symptoms do not improve, it is recommended to visit an ENT clinic or hospital for further examination. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the ENT Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Mi...

Difficulty Swallowing: When to Seek Medical Attention for Throat Issues

In the past week, I have felt like there is phlegm stuck in my throat. However, I do not have a cough, runny nose, fever, or sore throat. It is just very difficult to swallow saliva, and I have tried to cough up the phlegm, but it hasn't worked. I have been feeling discomfor...

Dr. Chen Junliang reply Otolaryngology
Ms. Toro: Based on the symptoms you described, it could be pharyngitis, which may be related to issues with the gastrointestinal tract, the throat itself, or the nasal passages. If it has not improved after ten days, further examination and treatment are necessary.

Understanding Throat Issues: When to See an ENT Specialist

Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing some discomfort in my throat. Sometimes it feels slightly tight, almost like a muscle strain, and I also feel pain when speaking. Eating doesn't seem to cause any issues. I've visited two ENT clinics, averaging four v...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the situation you described may be indicative of chronic pharyngitis. It is recommended to undergo laryngoscopy to rule out any masses, as well as to consider pharmacological treatment. In addition to medication, please pay attention to the following lifestyle recommendati...

Understanding Uvula Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention for Throat Pain

Hello, I have had a sore throat for about four days without any other cold symptoms. This afternoon, I started coughing, and tonight I noticed that two-thirds of my uvula has turned bright red, but there is no bleeding. I also feel a foreign body sensation in my throat, and the t...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, throat inflammation and redness are common. It is advisable to drink plenty of water and monitor the situation. If discomfort persists, or if there are symptoms such as fever or difficulty swallowing, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation and treatment.