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What Do Lumps On Uvula Indicate?

Posted on Fri, 19 Sep 2014

Question: I have 2 lumps on my uvula. They've been there for over a year. I also feel like there is something in my throat. The feeling isn't there in the morning but only happens as the day goes on. Not sure if the two are related or not.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (38 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Laryngo-pharyngeal reflux...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

The small swellings over the uvula could be the blocked minor salivary glands, forming a mucocele (fluid filled sac) under the mucosa. I doubt it is related to the present problem and the mucoceles are literally harmless swellings.

According to your history, I presume the present problems are related to a condition called Laryngo-pharyngeal reflux. The acid from the stomach regurgitates into the throat causing inflammation of the mucosa. The inflamed mucosa gives the sensation of foreign body in the throat. This usually worsens as the day proceeds, because of the stress and the food habits.

Do not worry! It is a simple problem, with appropriate intervention it can be take care of. My suggestions to you are:
1. Drink plenty of warm water
2. Avoid alcohol/ fried/fatty foods/spicy foods/caffeinated & carbonated beverages/smoking (if any)
3. Eat smaller meals
4. Avoid eating within 2-3 hours of bedtime
5. Avoid stress
6. Avoid tight fitting clothing
7. You may require proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole or esomeprazole and a prokinetic for the treatment of the same.

Hope I have answered your query; I will be available for the follow-up queries.

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

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (27 minutes later)

Thank you. I am going to see my GP this week to check. The lumps are smooth but I hope that its nothing serious. Honestly I can't say how long they've been there. I for all I know they could have been there for years. Will they go away on thier own typically?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
These are harmless swellings...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

As I mentioned before, these lumps are harmless mucoceles, do not worry about them. It may not clear on its own; and I do not advise any surgery for the same.

I wish you good health and good luck.

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. Vinay Bhardwaj