1. < Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT)

Chronic throat clearing

Posted by vinman789 @vinman789, May 24, 2023

I have had a problem for years that I always have something caught in my throat.
I can’t swallow it and I can’t clear my throat to bring it up either
At first they thought it was reflux and I had the reflux surgery and it didn’t help.
I have had numerous endoscopy and they can’t find anything wrong
I have seen three ENT doctors and have gotten no relief
The current doctor has me on an anti depressant and omenprazel.
I have up coming appointments with speech therapist and a follow up with an neurologist
This is getting to the point where it’s affecting me physically and mentally
There are times when I’m embarrassed to leave my house. Who wants to be near someone when he clears their throat constantly
I’m getting to the point where I’m afraid of becoming a recluse
Oh I have also seen nose specialist and it’s not post nasal drip either
Has anyone had this and overcome it?
I’m at the end of my rope

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Support Group.

sellen | @sellen | 2 days ago
In reply to @newton88 "Your description (from two years ago) is very similar to what I’ve experienced for many years...." + (show)
@newton88

Your description (from two years ago) is very similar to what I’ve experienced for many years. I’ve been to multiple ENTs, had an endoscopy (showed nothing unusual), been worked up for allergies, and been on multiple meds. Nothing has worked. Sometimes the problem is bearable and sometimes absolutely awful with constant sensation of mucus but inability to clear throat. Have you found any relief for your condition?
Thanks for any feedback.

Jump to this post

I have been on 200 mg of Gabapentin in the morning for the past couple of months and the severity and frequency of throat clearing is improved about 50% which I am very happy about! Some days it is barely noticeable.
From what I have read Gabapentin is most effective 2-3 hrs. After taking. Most of my throat clearing is mid morning (not sure why) and my ENT said it is fine to take it once per day. If your problem is all day you may need more frequency.
I tried 300 mg but it made me feel very clumsy and off kilter. I do hope you find relief as I totally understand your frustration!

REPLY
sellen | @sellen | 2 days ago

Also….my ENT offered a nerve block but apparently the improvements can sometimes be short term. Might be another possibility.

REPLY
katydid77 | @katydid77 | 1 day ago
In reply to @newton88 "Your description (from two years ago) is very similar to what I’ve experienced for many years...." + (show)
@newton88

Your description (from two years ago) is very similar to what I’ve experienced for many years. I’ve been to multiple ENTs, had an endoscopy (showed nothing unusual), been worked up for allergies, and been on multiple meds. Nothing has worked. Sometimes the problem is bearable and sometimes absolutely awful with constant sensation of mucus but inability to clear throat. Have you found any relief for your condition?
Thanks for any feedback.

Jump to this post

Have you tried Ginger Chews or lemon/ginger hot tea? This is the only thing that helps me when it seems mucus is hanging from my vocal chords. The Ginger cuts it loose. Simple, yet effective solution . I carry the chews in my pocket every where I go.

REPLY
View MoreView Less
Please sign in or register to post a reply.