Desperate for Answers - Persistent Throat Ulcers
I’m a 22-year-old who has been battling persistent ulcers on the back of my throat and tonsils. These are canker sores, not cold sores or pustules. All tests have come back negative for HSV, other STDs, and strep throat. During these episodes, I feel extremely drained; speaking and eating are unbearable due to the 5 to 15 ulcers that can flare up at once. Despite my diligent dental care, I don’t have any underlying dental problems. I also have Autism Spectrum Disorder, which heightens my sensitivity to sensory issues—this situation is unbearable for me. Often, I notice that the problems arise after I try to dislodge a tonsil stone, only to find that the next day my throat is completely covered in ulcers. This agony can last for weeks. Regular blood tests and B12 levels have returned normal results. The only conditions I’ve stumbled upon online that come close to my symptoms are Behçet's disease and Sutton's disease. I’ve also experienced occasional small blister-like sores in my genital area, which can be indicative of Behçet's, but it seems implausible for me to have such a rare disease. I'm at a breaking point; if I can’t find a solution or treatment soon, I’m not sure I can keep going. My doctor is unwilling to pursue further investigations or run any tests unless I specifically request them, but I’m not equipped to diagnose myself—how can I do her job? Honestly, I feel like I’m just about ready to give up. This is my final effort to seek clarity and assistance.
Answers (1)
8/15/2025, 5:51:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
I understand that you are experiencing significant discomfort from persistent throat ulcers, and it’s important to find effective ways to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Given the complexity of your situation and your medical history, let's focus on understanding possible triggers and actionable steps you can take.
Main Points:
- Possible Trigger: Your throat ulcers may be related to mechanical irritation from tonsil stones, possibly leading to inflammation or ulceration.
- Management Strategies: There are practical approaches to relieve your symptoms and potentially reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
- Consider Further Investigation: Insight into your current condition and communication with your healthcare provider remains crucial.
Explanation:
Canker sores, or ulcerations in the throat, can be caused by physical trauma—like attempting to remove tonsil stones—as well as factors such as stress, dietary deficiencies, or even immune responses. Your diagnosis should primarily focus on symptom management while considering underlying causes. Although it seems rare, conditions like Behçet's disease are more common than known, but it often requires a specialist's insight for a comprehensive evaluation.
Next Steps:
-
Avoid Irritation:
- When you notice tonsil stones, instead of dislodging them aggressively, consider using warm saltwater gargles (1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) several times a day to help soothe the area.
- Stick to soft, bland foods that won’t irritate your throat during flare-ups.
-
Pain Relief:
- Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling. Melting topical anesthetics (like benzocaine) can also help numb the throat.
-
Hydration and Nutrition:
- Stay well-hydrated and consider taking a multivitamin or supplementation, especially focusing on vitamin B12, folate, and other nutrients, since you mentioned normal blood levels but dietary factors can play a role.
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Document Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of your symptoms, triggers, and any dietary or lifestyle changes you make. This information can be helpful for you to discuss with your doctor or a specialist.
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Pursue Specialist Consultation:
- If your current healthcare provider is resistant to exploring further diagnoses, seek a referral to an oral medicine specialist or a dermatologist familiar with ulcerative conditions. Presenting the detailed log of your symptoms might support your request for further evaluation.
Final Thoughts:
Remember that you are advocating for your health, and persistence in seeking the right care is important. It can be difficult to navigate this alone, especially with the challenges posed by sensory sensitivities. Try to maintain open communication with your doctor about your needs and concerns, and don't hesitate to seek further opinions if needed. You deserve relief, and there are paths to finding it.
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