What Could be Causing a Bump in My Throat? Cyst or Polyp?
I’m a 25-year-old female weighing 105 pounds, currently not taking any prescribed medications. Although I have a doctor's appointment scheduled for next week, I’m eager to understand what might be happening in my throat. 1. In February, I experienced a bout of Norovirus that left me vomiting for several hours. Since this incident, I’ve wondered if it could be related to my current issue. 2. On March 3, I developed symptoms resembling a flu or Covid-19 infection, including a mild fever, chills, an extremely sore throat, and an incessant cough (No nasal congestion was present at any point). I went for testing and thankfully, I tested negative for flu, Covid, and strep throat. However, by the sixth day, I was also diagnosed with pink eye, and by the seventh day, I had a blocked ear. My coughing was relentless, making it hard to sleep. I’ve never coughed that much before; it was certainly not enjoyable! 3. On the eighth day, I visited my physician who prescribed antibiotics. Gradually, I started to feel an improvement. However, while the cough is less severe now, my right ear remains somewhat blocked. A few days ago, I discovered a small bump near my uvula, possibly a cyst. I had an odd sensation like something was lodged at the back of my tongue. The bump feels soft and does not hurt at all. It seems to appear intermittently in that same area, and I sometimes think I can feel it at the back of my tongue, which is strange. What type of cyst could this be? Are there remedies to eliminate it, or should I stick to saltwater rinses daily? I’m concerned about the possibility that surgery may be required for its removal. I can’t help but wonder if it might be a mucous retention cyst. I’ll be sharing a photo for clarity. On a positive note, aside from the slight ear blockage, I’m feeling quite well. It’s just this bothersome bump that’s causing me frustration! My follow-up with the doctor is still two weeks away, but I can’t help but worry in the meantime. Is there any chance this bump could resolve on its own like a mouth sore or ulcer?
Answers (1)
3/26/2025, 11:41:07 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing uncertainty and concern regarding a bump in your throat, especially following some recent health challenges. While it's understandable to be anxious about this symptom, many throat bumps can be benign and may resolve on their own. Here’s a clearer understanding of your situation along with steps you can take.
Main Points:
- The bump near your uvula could likely be a mucous retention cyst or another benign condition, especially considering it’s soft and non-painful.
- After recent illnesses, residual effects can occur in the throat and ears.
- It's important to keep an eye on it until your doctor's appointment for professional assessment.
Explanation:
A mucous retention cyst typically forms when a mucous gland becomes blocked, leading to fluid accumulation. These cysts are often harmless and can sometimes resolve without intervention. Other possible options include benign growths or even residual inflammation from your previous illnesses. Your history of severe coughing and throat irritation from the episodes you described may also contribute to changes in the throat tissue.
Next Steps:
- Monitor the Bump:
- Keep an eye on the bump over the next few days. Make note of any changes in size, color, or sensation.
- Saltwater Rinses:
- Continue with saltwater rinses (1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water), which can help soothe irritation and promote healing.
- Hydration:
- Stay well-hydrated to keep the tissues in your throat moist and promote healing.
- Avoid Irritants:
- Steer clear of smoking, second-hand smoke, or extremely spicy foods that may aggravate the throat.
- Symptom Journal:
- Keep a simple journal of your symptoms, including when the bump appears and any other sensations you feel. This will help you provide detailed information to your doctor.
Reassurance:
It’s completely normal to feel concerned about changes in your body, especially after experiencing illness. If the bump becomes painful, changes dramatically, or is accompanied by severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, it would be prudent to seek medical attention sooner. Otherwise, your scheduled appointment is a great opportunity to get a thorough evaluation. You're not alone in this, and many similar cases resolve naturally.
Feel free to reach out if you have further questions or need more guidance!
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