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What Causes Constant Scratchy Feeling At The Back Of The Throat?

Posted on Thu, 2 Feb 2017

Question: Several weeks ago, I was not feeling well. Felt like I was coming down with the flu. I took tea, honey, oscillococcinum and was doing fine. Several days later, maybe 2-3, I started getting scratchy throats. I was diagnosed with tertiary esophagus about 9 years ago. It bothers me at times with food seems like it stuck in my throat. I have to reach for something to drink to get it down. It has not bothered me for the last few days. I thought it was the dryness of the heat and so I put on the humidifier. That seems to help. I do use the Neti pot quite a bit also. I'm wondering how this is all tied together and if there is a serious component to it all.

Answered by Dr. Rahul Tawde (45 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Hydration + Moisture of Throat and Pharynx

Detailed Answer:
Good Day, I'm sorry you are experiencing such symptoms. There absolutely can be a component to this all. The flu/as does any illness will lead to many physiological responses, including dehydration and limitations in salivary and gland like activity. Thus the lubrication of your throat can be greatly effected. The dryness of the air also may contribute. Since a humidifier helps I would do even more to possibly add more moisture to your throat. My number one suggestion is hydration. Make sure you are drinking at least 3 water bottles a day, and many sources suggest quite a bit more even than that. Otherwise, I would also engage muscular stretching of your throat with your hands in the mornings or before meals, as well as potential ibuprofen to ease any inflammation you may be experiencing. I hope our discussion has helped! Please feel free to contact for any follow up questions you may have.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Rahul Tawde (26 hours later)

My throat is feeling better but now I am experiencing at least 3 times a week food seemingly stuck at the top of my throat. Could this be related to dryness? Looks like it may be time to see an ENT?? I'm constantly clearing my throat..Not all the time, just sometimes. No pain, no cough, just slightly irritation. I can feel the food or whatever has not gone down. It seems rather small though. Your thoughts??

Answered by Dr. Rahul Tawde (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Please Continue Therapy

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I would say continue the recommendation I've provided yesterday above for some few days; you may not see immediate alleviation immediately the first day, but I would keep it up and see if it continues to improve. Also, certainly see the ENT specialist as to get a more physical, hands on and specialized examination in regards to your symptoms.

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. Arnab Banerjee