Throat Swelling on One Side: Could it Be Acid Reflux?
A 29-year-old woman reports that she is currently facing persistent acid reflux problems. For several months, I have experienced progressively worsening acid reflux symptoms. I recall having similar issues in my childhood whenever I consumed greasy dishes or red meat, such as cheeseburgers; however, these experiences used to be mild and manageable. Since March, I've noticed that I frequently wake up with a sore throat, predominantly on the left side, which typically lasts throughout the day but tends to ease by the evening. After a few weeks of this discomfort, I also began to feel a strange clicking or popping sensation when I swallow. Upon examining my throat, I observed that the back arch appears quite uneven, with the left side appearing more constricted and swollen compared to the right. After consulting my physician, they expressed no significant alarm, suggesting that these symptoms might indeed stem from my acid reflux, especially since I often sleep on my left side, potentially causing acid to accumulate during the night. They prescribed omeprazole, and fortunately, the sore throat subsided within a few days. Nevertheless, the clicking sensation and the asymmetry in my throat have continued. Is it possible that all these issues could be attributed to acid reflux? Additionally, I've noticed a feeling of fullness in my left ear. I also experienced a canker sore on the back of my throat on that same side, which has since healed. I am implementing some dietary changes that appear to be helping manage the reflux, yet the frustrating popping sound and swelling in my throat are still present. I am considering seeing an ENT specialist, but I'm unsure if I should be worried or if these symptoms are likely all linked to the reflux issue. I definitely appreciate any insights you may have! My tonsils are already quite large, and it’s noteworthy that one is consistently larger than the other.
Answers (1)
7/13/2025, 11:40:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a complex set of symptoms involving acid reflux, throat discomfort, and possible throat swelling. These issues can often intersect. Let's break it down:
Main Points:
- Your symptoms of throat swelling, clicking sounds when swallowing, and ear fullness might be linked to your acid reflux.
- The asymmetry in your throat, especially with larger tonsils, could also contribute to discomfort but should be monitored.
Explanation:
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, which can irritate the throat and lead to symptoms like sore throat and discomfort. Sleeping on your left side can indeed exacerbate these symptoms as it may allow acid to pool more readily in that location overnight. The popping sound you hear when swallowing could be related to fluid or pressure variations in your throat caused by swelling or your tonsils.
The feeling of fullness in your ear can also occur with throat issues, as the throat and ears are connected by the Eustachian tubes. When there’s swelling or pressure, it can affect how your ears feel.
Next Steps:
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Continue your current management: Stick with the dietary changes that help alleviate reflux—avoid greasy, acidic, and spicy foods, and try not to eat within a few hours of bedtime.
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Monitor and document your symptoms: Keep a daily log of what you eat, your symptoms, and any changes. This can help you identify patterns and triggers.
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Consider positional changes: Try sleeping on your right side or elevate your head while sleeping to reduce reflux during the night.
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Stay hydrated: This can ease throat irritation. Warm teas with honey can be soothing.
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Follow up with an ENT Specialist: Given the ongoing symptoms of throat asymmetry and the popping sensation, an ENT can help evaluate any structural issues or other causes. It’s a good idea to get a professional opinion, especially since you've noticed that one tonsil is larger.
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Use a throat lozenge or gargle salt water: This can soothe irritation and potentially decrease swelling temporarily.
While these symptoms may be interconnected and stemming from acid reflux, they warrant careful monitoring and possibly further investigation to ensure there isn't another underlying issue, especially with the asymmetry in your throat and ongoing symptoms. You're taking proactive steps by managing your acid reflux and considering expert consultation, which is excellent. If your symptoms worsen or new ones arise, reevaluate your approach as needed. Let me know if you have more questions!
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