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Have A Persistent Need Of Clearing Throat. Underlying Cause?

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Posted on Sun, 2 Jun 2013
Twitter Sun, 2 Jun 2013 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 18 Jun 2013 Last reviewed on
Question : I have a persitent clearing of my throat. been going on for many monthe. No phlegm, just a constant need to clear my throat.
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Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (49 minutes later)
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. The possible causes for frequent clearing of the throat are:
a. Acid reflux: LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux) has no chest related symptoms, unlike GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
b. Lymphoid hypertrophy in the throat: Including Granular Pharyngitis, hypertrophy of the lingual tonsils and allergy.
c. Dryness in the throat: Mouth breathing due to snoring / Sleep Apnea, decreased salivation (age related).
d. A post nasal drip: less likely due to absence of phlegm.

2. Get a Videolaryngoscopy done. It will help decide further treatment. Do you have any cough?

3. You may also get a Sleep Study done. Weight loss will help.

I hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.

Regards.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Sumit Bhatti

Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 2686 Questions

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Have A Persistent Need Of Clearing Throat. Underlying Cause?

Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. The possible causes for frequent clearing of the throat are:
a. Acid reflux: LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux) has no chest related symptoms, unlike GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
b. Lymphoid hypertrophy in the throat: Including Granular Pharyngitis, hypertrophy of the lingual tonsils and allergy.
c. Dryness in the throat: Mouth breathing due to snoring / Sleep Apnea, decreased salivation (age related).
d. A post nasal drip: less likely due to absence of phlegm.

2. Get a Videolaryngoscopy done. It will help decide further treatment. Do you have any cough?

3. You may also get a Sleep Study done. Weight loss will help.

I hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.

Regards.