Throat Irritation

Posted by Wayne Crosby @sanway, Jul 16, 2021

Been experiencing a low grade irritation at the base of my throat for the past year. A GI doctor scoped me and a ENT doctor scoped me. Nothing revealing from that. They speculate that it may be Silent GERD. Been on Protonix for several months now but no real change. Having a what the heck moment. Does this ring a bell for anyone?

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

Sue, Volunteer Mentor | @sueinmn | Jul 16, 2021

Hello - isn't it annoying when you can't figure these things out?

Since sinuses and active GERD (damage confirmed by scope) have presumably been ruled out, it's time to think about more remote possibilities.

If silent GERD (symptoms, but damage not apparent on scope) is a possibility, have you taken a look at the GERD guidelines as far as diet, limiting liquids, not eating before bed, etc? You can see them here: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults/treatment

Some medications can cause these symptoms on their own or by inducing GERD onset. Maybe you need to read about each medication (including prescriptions, supplements over the counter drugs. Also new medications in combination with those you have taken before, or with certain supplements can change your body. Refer to either the labels, package inserts, or here: https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/index

Sometimes allergies can crop up in the strangest ways - either spontaneously develop, or we change out diet and add a new food which irritates us. Some common triggers include caffeine, herbal teas, chocolate, alcohol, eggs, dairy, nuts ... I found out, quite by accident, that one of my herbal teas had a plant in it that I was clearly allergic to. In another case, a favorite food of mine was changed to add almond flour to which I am allergic, and I didn't realize it.

Can you think of any of the above that may apply to you?
Sue

Wayne Crosby | @sanway | Jul 17, 2021

In reply to @sueinmn "Hello - isn't it annoying when you can't figure these things out? Since sinuses and active..." + (show)

Hello Sue,
Thank you so much for the reply and information. I will take a look at those GERD guidelines. I’m meeting with my GP next week so I suppose we will take a bigger look at diet, medicines, and lifestyle then. Hopefully we will figure out this mystery.
Thanks again and best wishes,
Wayne