Aftereffects of Viral Throat Sensations
Age: 42 years Height: 6 feet Weight: 175 pounds Gender: Male Medications: Multivitamin, Ibuprofen Lifestyle: Non-Smoker Medical History: Dealing with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) since 2015; had COVID-19 in 2020 and 2022; currently experiencing a perplexing throat condition for the past 8 months. I truly hope someone can provide a solution! Before falling ill, I had never experienced issues related to Reflux, LPR, or throat discomfort. In August 2024, I encountered an upper respiratory and sinus infection. It might have been COVID-19, though I was never tested and treated myself with over-the-counter medications. I had previously contracted COVID-19 twice in 2020 and 2022, but on this occasion, I dealt with green and yellow nasal discharge along with phlegm. This lasted about a week before the infection subsided, yet I found myself constantly clearing my throat due to lingering mucus sensations. My daily routine proceeded as usual, albeit with an incessant urge to clear my throat from a slight feeling of mucus. I tried using menthol cough drops but eventually discontinued their use. I also experimented with Mucinex, Flonase, and Amoxicillin to combat any residual infection, but none of these seemed effective. Fast forward two months to November 2024; after an intense argument with my ex where I yelled at the top of my lungs, I noticed a new throat sensation two days later. This feeling mimicked having a popcorn kernel lodged in my throat and became increasingly itchy and ticklish, prompting even more throat clearing and bouts of coughing. At times, it felt as if something pinched the base of my throat. I consulted an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist who suspects I may be suffering from Laryngeal Hypersensitivity or an Irritable Larynx. Two laryngoscopies showed no issues, as did a CT scan of my sinus and neck, chest X-ray, blood panel, and urinalysis—though I did notice my urine appeared more bubbly than usual, the doctor reassured me about normal kidney function. I received three laryngeal nerve blocks, but they offered no relief whatsoever. I have eliminated sodas and sweets from my diet and have been sipping more water. Additionally, I've been taking multivitamins to ensure I consume adequate B vitamins and other essential supplements. Skinny late night thoughts: I've been prescribed Gabapentin by one doctor and Lyrica by another, but I'm hesitant to start either medication due to my anxiety and fear of side effects. I have been researching the Vagus Nerve and potential remedies that could alleviate my uncomfortable throat sensitivity and persistent throat clearing. Does anyone have advice, tips, or possible solutions to help with this issue?
Answers (1)
7/1/2025, 3:31:02 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been dealing with a complex throat issue for quite some time, and I understand how frustrating it can be, especially with a history of anxiety and PTSD. Based on your description, your symptoms may be related to several factors, including the aftermath of a viral infection and possibly laryngeal hypersensitivity.
Key Points:
- Symptoms Overview: Your persistent throat sensations, especially after an infection and stress, could indicate laryngeal hypersensitivity, which can occur after an upper respiratory infection or stress.
- Previous Evaluations: Negative findings from laryngoscopies and imaging are reassuring, but it indicates that your throat discomfort may not stem from anatomical issues.
Explanation:
Laryngeal hypersensitivity means your throat might overreact to stimuli (like normal mucus or even stress). Stress, anxiety, and previous infections can heighten sensitivity in that area, leading to sensations like a lump in the throat or bouts of coughing. Furthermore, the fact that your symptoms intensified after an emotional episode suggests that stress may be a contributing factor.
Next Steps:
-
Hydration & Humidification: Continue to sip water regularly. This can help thin mucus and soothe irritation. Consider using a humidifier, especially in dry environments, as this can help keep your throat moist.
-
Dietary Adjustments: Continue to maintain your diet change. Focus on anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help manage inflammation.
-
Gentle Throat Exercises: Some patients find that gentle vocal exercises or throat relaxation techniques can help desensitize the larynx. Try humming gently or low vocalizations to relax your throat.
-
Manage Anxiety: Given your history with GAD and PTSD, consider employing coping strategies like mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or talking with a therapist who can provide additional support. Addressing anxiety can have a positive impact on physical symptoms.
-
Gradual Trial of Medications: If you're feeling up to it, consider a gradual trial of Gabapentin or Lyrica at a low dose. Monitoring how you respond may provide clarity. Discuss your concerns with your doctor and consider having a support plan in place during the trial.
-
Limits on Throat Clearing: Try to reduce the frequency of throat clearing as it can aggravate irritation. Instead, sip water or take gentle swallows to soothe your throat if you feel the urge to clear it.
Reassurance:
Feeling uncertain about your condition is completely understandable, especially after these experiences. The good news is that many patients see improvement over time with proper management. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s essential to continue following up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and support. Your symptoms can improve, and you are taking commendable steps to address them. Let me know if you'd like more information on any specific area!
Related Questions
Post-Necrotizing Pneumonia Recovery Challenges
Hello everyone, I wanted to share an update regarding my brother, who is 17 years old and had a significant health crisis. Standing at 6'2" and weighing around 95 kg before his illness, he now weighs approximately 73 to 75 kg after spending 4.5 months in the Intensive Care Unit due to necrotizing pneumonia, which was accompanied by flu, S. aureus PVL+, and pneumococcus, ultimately leading to septic shock. While I am grateful that he survived, he has been left with serious consequences, including the loss of half of his left foot and several toes on his right foot. He recently attended a follow-up appointment in the pulmonology department, and unfortunately, the news was not very promising. I’m seeking insight on the results he received to understand if there’s potential for recovery or whether some conditions might be lasting. Here are the translated findings from his recent tests: 1. **Blood Gas Analysis (with reference ranges)** - pH: 7.47 (Norm: 7.36-7.44) - pCO2: 3.73 KPa (Norm: 5.00-5.60) - PO2: 12.88 KPa (Norm: 11.17-13.83) - Bicarbonate: 20 mmol/L (Norm: 22-24) - Total CO2: 21 mmol/L (Norm: 23-25) - Base Excess: -2.6 mmol/L (Norm: -2.00-2.00) - O2 Saturation: 98% I recognize that the elevated pH is a result of the diminished pCO2. However, is it typical to see such irregular results at this stage? Will these values likely normalize over time? The A-a gradient is measured at 18 mmHg, while the expected maximum is 6 mmHg, indicating that oxygen transfer from the lungs to the bloodstream isn't functioning optimally, despite his excellent O2 saturation. Can we anticipate any improvement through respiratory physiotherapy? 2. **Pulmonary Function Tests** - Total Lung Capacity (TLC): 5.73L (77% of normal) - Forced Vital Capacity: 3.74L (61% of predicted) - FEV1: 2.90L (56% of predicted) - DLCO: 16.32 mL/min*mmHg - KCO: 63% Given that his lungs were severely compromised with 75% infection and could only handle 10-30 mL of air at some points, I’m not too surprised by these results. Is it possible for him to achieve more typical lung function with respiratory therapy? What additional measures could assist in recovering lung capacity? 3. **Imaging Results** His pulmonary artery shows dilation; it was recorded as being 31 mm with PA:A > 1 and this condition has remained stable since his ICU admission. Additionally, he has been diagnosed with varicose bronchiectasis. While it seems the bronchiectasis may be permanent, I am keen to understand its long-term effects. Will this condition significantly hinder his quality of life, or are there effective ways to manage it and maintain control over the symptoms? I apologize for the lengthy message, but since I am overseas and was unable to join my brother at his appointment, I appreciate any insights or advice you can offer. Thank you for your assistance!
Persistent Moisture Down There
Let me provide some background... I’ve lived the single life for 26 years, but this past May, I began communicating with a guy. Although I’ve taken the pill previously, I’m currently not using any hormonal birth control. After my recent trip to London, I came back and noticed something unusual: I’ve been consistently feeling wet down there—enough to completely soak my underwear. It’s not related to discharge at all. Prior to this, I was as dry as the desert. Now, even when I'm apart from him, I continue to experience this moisture. When we first got intimate after my return from London, his first comment was about how wet I was. It’s quite embarrassing because this change happened so abruptly, and I can’t pinpoint anything I’ve done differently. Is it possible that I’m just perpetually aroused? What’s the situation here? I should mention that there’s no odor, unusual discharge, or discomfort, which reassures me that it’s not an infection or STI. Our physical encounters have been limited to fondling, with no penetrative intercourse. I really need some advice!
Seeking Guidance on Ongoing Breathing Issues
I’m a 19-year-old male, standing at 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 240 pounds. Approximately seven months ago, I was involved in a severe car accident. About an hour post-collision, I experienced shortness of breath for the very first time. I had sustained a broken finger and noticed that my shoulder was heavily bruised, turning a distinct shade of yellow. I went to the emergency room on the day of the incident, underwent X-rays, and was subsequently discharged. Since that day, I’ve been intermittently struggling with breathing difficulties. My relationship with my parents isn’t the best, which has led me to hesitate in seeking further medical evaluation. The episodes of breathlessness aren’t overly severe, occurring randomly about twice a week, typically after I smoke. On occasion, I also experience slight pain in my chest area that lasts for roughly 30 seconds before subsiding. I can’t help but feel that these symptoms began right after the accident, as I had never dealt with breathlessness prior to this event. I intend to see a doctor soon, but in the meantime, I would appreciate any insights or recommendations regarding what could be causing this issue.
Concerns for My Grandfather's Health
Greetings! My grandfather, who is 61 years old, has been hospitalized this evening due to several serious health complications. Initially diagnosed with bladder cancer, he underwent the procedure to have a urostomy bag after losing his bladder. Unfortunately, the cancer has since metastasized to his lungs, and although he attempted immunotherapy, I suspect an infection in his port led to the cessation of that treatment. Currently, his hospitalization is due to the discovery of a pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, and a urinary tract infection (UTI). I’m reaching out to gather any insights or perspectives regarding his situation, as I'm genuinely concerned for his well-being. This is not the first time he has encountered a blood clot; however, given the combination of cancer, lung issues, and pneumonia, my anxiety is heightened.
Unusual Dark Spots on My Back – Observed Since 2022?
Hello everyone, I've been noticing a peculiar cluster of dark spots on my back. Upon reviewing some old photographs, it seems these marks began to emerge around 2022, but I didn't really take notice until January 2023 when I examined my back more closely. It's been difficult to capture the changes in photographs, but I can share some visuals from then and recent ones despite their poor quality. Since I first became aware of them, these spots appear to have increased in number or size. They are asymptomatic; I don’t experience any itching or pain, but their presence is troubling to me. Compounding my concern are additional symptoms I've been facing, such as persistent shortness of breath and severe fatigue over the last several months. I have a few questions: - What might these spots indicate? - Could there be a connection between these skin changes and my fatigue or respiratory difficulties? - Should I consult a dermatologist or another health professional regarding this matter? Any insights would be greatly appreciated. I do plan to visit a doctor soon, but I'm eager to gather some preliminary thoughts on what this might entail. Thank you for your help!