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What Causes Swelling On The Side Of Throat?

Posted on Wed, 7 Oct 2015

Question: I have slight swelling on left side of throat for many months. It does not hurt but can feel it when I talk a lot. It does clear up a bit in the mornings when I wake up. I was a smoker for many years and am afraid it may be cancer. I will include a picture on the next page. What could it be? It is not strep. Thanks,

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (42 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Granulations on the pharyngeal wall...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

I have gone through the query and examined the image thoroughly. I am of the opinion that the swelling you are worried about is the granulation over the pharyngeal wall.

Granulations are the inflamed lymphoid follicles which get enlarged in conditions such as recurrent pharyngitis, smoking, acid reflux disease, allergy etc.

Do not worry! The present lesion doesn't look like a cancerous swelling. If you are still worried, get a telescopic laryngoscopy done to rule out any other problems in the larynx.

My suggestions to you are:
1. Drink plenty of warm water.
2. Try using povidone iodine mouth gargles or throat spray.
3. Avoid chilled food and beverages/alcohol/smoking.

Hope this answers your query; I'll be available for the follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

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. Neel Kudchadkar