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For Quite Some Time Now, I Have A Burning Feeling

Posted on Sat, 9 May 2020

Question: For quite some time now, I have a burning feeling on right side of throat, deep and way in the back. Seems to be around the rim on the right side just where u swallow. Also, some white patches as well. Having neurological issues on the right side for many years now include. burning mouth syndrome, atypical odontalgia, trying to separate the two and not sure if this is medical or nerve related. Pain also radiates into right ear but ENT checked both throat and ear approx. a year ago and saw nothing amiss. I have tried almost everything - salt water rinses, various rinses and one odd thing is that when gargling, left side is normal but the gargle on the right feels odd, like a blockage there when I see none. Also, I have taken a long Q-tip to the area and most liquids are innocuous but one thing that does burn is Eugenol. I just tried some liquid Lidocaine on area and no change to it. Just wondering what your thoughts would be and any remedy I may have missed.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Laryngopharyngeal reflux secondary to Gastro-esophageal reflux disease.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

According to the symptoms that you have described, you seem to be suffering from Laryngopharyngeal reflux secondary to Gastro-esophageal reflux disease. This is a common feature following any stress/infection/certain medications.

As the ear shares the same innervation of the throat, any irritation or inflammation in the throat can be perceived in the ear as itching and pain.

My suggestions to you are:
1. Drink frequent sips of warm water
2. Take a proton pump inhibitor such as Pantoprazole or Esomeprazole, along with a prokinetic
3. Avoid hot or chilled food and beverages
4. Avoid coffee/fizzy drinks/smoking, if any
5. Avoid worrying about this problem
6. Avoid salt water gargles, as this can dry up your throat and cause more discomfort.
7. Sleep with head-end raised

With the above measures, you should get better.

Hope this answers your query. Revert back to me if you have follow-up queries.

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

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (9 hours later)

Hi, doctor and thank you. I never had an issue with heartburn but I believe you are accurate in your diagnosis. Since the burning has been especially worse today, just two quick follow up questions. Re: This diagnosis - is it common to have this burning constantly (far back corner deep in the throat) as I do and also, is it common to have only one side affected (as is my case.) Also, tried to sip the warm water but right side feels "off" as if there is a blockage where none seems to exist. Would there be any topical solution of any sort to apply to alleviate burning sensation? Thank u again and please, take care. XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
These are classic symptoms of Laryngopharyngeal reflux

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Welcome back

1. Your symptoms fit into the classic features of the laryngopharyngeal reflux.

2. This is also known as silent reflux as many don’t perceive the symptoms of heartburn.

3. Most of the time, the pain in the throat would be unilateral because of the regurgitation of the acid towards one side.

4. Antacids available over the counter can relieve the throat discomfort/burning sensation temporarily.

Hope this clarifies your doubts. Wish you good health. God bless you.

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. Raju A.T