A Year of Enduring Throat Pain Without Answers
I'm a 17-year-old female, standing at 5'3" and weighing 127 pounds. Since April of the previous year, I've been suffering from persistent throat discomfort. At the moment, I'm using a nasal spray to manage my allergies. In the past, I have experimented with antibiotics, tried antacids, and even adopted a gluten-free diet, which provided some relief but didn't completely alleviate the pain. I've also taken steroids based on the hypothesis related to my allergies. An ENT specialist examined me with a scope and found no evidence of acid reflux, cancer, tonsil stones, or any damage due to mucus. Most of the time, my throat appears normal with slight redness, but during flare-ups—often triggered by gluten or seasonal allergens—it becomes extremely swollen. I am curious if cytomegalovirus (CMV) might be a factor, as I've tested positive for it previously, and sore throat was my most prominent symptom then. Additionally, I have a history of Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, both of which have compromised my immune system, causing symptoms that healthy individuals may not experience. Recently, I've also been experiencing significant shaking in my hands, although I'm not sure if it's related to my throat issues. I mention this just in case it might provide some insight. I'm in need of suggestions because I feel somewhat adrift. While the pain isn't severely debilitating—it fluctuates between a 1-3 on the pain scale, reminiscent of post-yelling discomfort—it's a persistent ache that seems poised to intensify. Given my health status, I struggle to have faith in my immune system's ability to aid my recovery.
Answers (1)
6/22/2025, 3:10:43 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a complex situation involving ongoing throat discomfort and possibly multiple contributing factors. Your persistence in seeking answers is commendable, and I want to support you in addressing your concerns. Let's break this down:
Main Points
- You have persistent throat pain with no clear diagnosis from specialists.
- Allergy-related triggers seem to exacerbate your symptoms.
- You mention a history of infections like CMV, Lyme disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which may influence your immune response.
Explanation
The throat discomfort you're experiencing could be related to several factors, including allergies, post-viral syndromes from past infections, or even an increase in sensitivity due to your history with autoimmune conditions. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) can cause throat issues but is typically not the sole contributor to ongoing pain, especially if you've tested negative for other potential complications.
The shaking in your hands might be linked to anxiety or other underlying conditions, but without a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, it’s hard to determine its cause.
Next Steps
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Monitor Allergens and Triggers: Since you’ve noticed that gluten and seasonal allergens worsen your symptoms, continue to track your diet and environmental exposures. Consider an elimination diet or keep a detailed food diary to identify other possible triggers.
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Hydration and Humidification: Keep your throat moist. Drink plenty of fluids, and consider using a humidifier in your room, especially during allergy season, to help reduce throat irritation.
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Consult a Specialist: While an ENT has already examined you, consider seeing an immunologist to discuss your history with Lyme disease and potential immunological factors. They can help assess whether your immune system is functioning optimally and if additional tests are warranted related to CMV.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: Incorporate gentle throat soothing remedies such as warm teas (with honey if tolerated) or gargling with salt water. Avoid known irritants, such as smoking or alcohol.
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your throat pain, hand shaking, and any other symptoms (including when they occur) to aid in future discussions with healthcare providers.
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Consider Mental Health Support: If the chronic nature of your symptoms is causing anxiety or frustration, talking to a mental health professional might help. Managing stress can improve your overall well-being and potentially your physical symptoms.
It’s understandable to feel adrift with ongoing discomfort and uncertainty about your health. Keep track of these steps and any changes you notice. Let me know if you need further assistance or clarification on any points!
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