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Throat

Comprehensive Throat Care

Throat disorders range from a sore throat to difficulty swallowing. These seemingly common symptoms can be indicators of serious medical conditions, and we encourage patients who experience these symptoms to schedule an appointment with us. At Virginia Ear Nose and Throat, we use a patient-driven approach to care to effectively and compassionately treat a wide range of throat conditions.

Treating Sore Throats in Richmond, VA

In most cases, a sore throat, or pharyngitis, indicates the presence of a bacterial infection or virus in the body. The infection or virus can be treated with medication or resolve itself over time. However, there are other conditions that can cause soreness:

This is a bacterial infection that most commonly occurs in children. Patients are diagnosed through a swab sample and placed on antibiotics. After starting antibiotics, patients should start feeling better in a couple of days.

People who experience frequent soreness may suffer from tonsillitis, an infection of the tonsils. Tonsillitis is more common in children than adults, but can affect anyone. People who frequently experience tonsillitis may benefit from having their tonsils surgically removed.

The epiglottis is a piece of cartilage located above the larynx that protects the windpipe. In Epiglottitis cases, the Epiglottis swells and blocks the windpipe. While most infections are treatable, epiglottitis is a life-threatening infection that requires immediate medical intervention.

People with allergies often experience soreness when exposed to an allergen. Avoiding the allergen or pursuing treatment for allergies can help alleviate this symptom.

During the winter, cold, dry air can irritate the throat. Using a humidifier helps add moisture to the air and prevents the throat from drying out.

In addition to losing your voice, yelling or cheering at a concert or sports event can be hard on the membranes and contribute to a sore throat.

Air pollutants such as smoke as well as some of the chemicals found in household cleaners can be irritating.

Cancers of the throat, tongue or larynx can cause soreness and discomfort. Other symptoms to look out for include trouble swallowing and the presence of swelling or lumps in the neck.

What Is GERD?

Acid reflux is when stomach acid flows up into the esophagus. Everyone experiences acid reflux, commonly called heartburn, from time to time. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which patients experience chronic heartburn due to the frequent presence of stomach acid in the esophagus. Normally, a muscle at the bottom of your esophagus called the esophageal sphincter helps food pass into the stomach. In patients with GERD, the esophageal sphincter weakens or doesn’t close properly after you swallow, allowing stomach acid into the esophagus.

Among other complications, over time chronic acid reflux can damage the esophagus. GERD can have a multitude of effects on the throat, including difficulty swallowing, laryngitis, hoarseness as well as sinus conditions. A serious complication of GERD is Barrett’s esophagus, which causes a thickening of the lining of the esophagus. Patients with Barrett’s esophagus are at higher risk for esophagus cancer and should regularly see a Virginia Ear Nose and Throat specialist to monitor the possible development for precancerous cells.

Treatment for GERD

Managing symptoms of GERD can be a complex process. Though patients with GERD need to see a gastroenterologist for specialized care, they may also benefit from meeting with an Ear, Nose and Throat provider. Prescription and nonprescription medications for GERD include antacids, proton pump inhibitors and H2 receptor blockers. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. Lifestyle and diet changes such as limiting alcohol, quitting smoking and avoiding eating before bed can help improve GERD symptoms. People with GERD may also benefit from avoiding food known to exacerbate acid reflux. Avoid fried, fast and processed foods as well as tomato sauce, citrus, carbonated beverages and more.