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Suggest Treatment For Lumps On The Back Of The Throat
Question: Hello Doctor, I've found some lumps in the back of my throat, they hurt only a little bit when I swallow and I suspect there could be some more not seen in the photo I included. Could this be orophargeal cancer as I've had cunnilingus once. Other symptoms, I have mucus running into the throat from my nose (could be rhinitis) but I want to know about the lumps for now.
Thank you, I appreciate your help.
Thank you, I appreciate your help.
Brief Answer:
Granular Pharyngitis. Not cancer.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. The image shows inflamed bands of lymphoid (tonsil-like) tissue in the back of the throat. This lymphoid tissue is normally distributed throughout the oral cavity. When chronically enlarged, this is known as Granular Pharyngitis.
2. Common causes for Granular Pharyngitis are throat irritation due to allergy, post nasal drip, acid reflux, infections, mouth breathing, air pollution and exposure to tobacco.
3. The source of the irritation to the throat must be identified to reverse this condition. I would recommend bland food, medicated gargles (oral rinse) and a short course of oral steroids (under antibiotic cover). The lymphoid hypertrophy can be cauterised carefully by coblation or radio-frequency (new technologies) if there is no response to medication.
4. A throat swab should be done. Routine blood investigations are advised.
5. You may share the results of the tests for further treatment options.
6. In the meanwhile, you can start antibiotics, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, anti-reflux medication, a medicated oral rinse, a bland diet and adequate fluids.
I must emphasize that this is a common treatable problem. This is not cancer and not a cause for worry.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Granular Pharyngitis. Not cancer.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. The image shows inflamed bands of lymphoid (tonsil-like) tissue in the back of the throat. This lymphoid tissue is normally distributed throughout the oral cavity. When chronically enlarged, this is known as Granular Pharyngitis.
2. Common causes for Granular Pharyngitis are throat irritation due to allergy, post nasal drip, acid reflux, infections, mouth breathing, air pollution and exposure to tobacco.
3. The source of the irritation to the throat must be identified to reverse this condition. I would recommend bland food, medicated gargles (oral rinse) and a short course of oral steroids (under antibiotic cover). The lymphoid hypertrophy can be cauterised carefully by coblation or radio-frequency (new technologies) if there is no response to medication.
4. A throat swab should be done. Routine blood investigations are advised.
5. You may share the results of the tests for further treatment options.
6. In the meanwhile, you can start antibiotics, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, anti-reflux medication, a medicated oral rinse, a bland diet and adequate fluids.
I must emphasize that this is a common treatable problem. This is not cancer and not a cause for worry.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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