Hello I Have A Question About Long Term Reddish Throat

Posted on Fri, 10 May 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 10 May 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : Hello I have a question about long term reddish throat with slight production of thick sputum which I am able to sort of “hork up” and spit out. There are sometimes whitish streaks on my posterior throat. Seems like greater than 6 months or more. Not painful. Sometimes a slight fullness back of throat which improves with spitting up sputum. Clear my throat a few times a day. No swollen glands or lumps otherwise pretty normal. I am 63 and male. Type 1 diabetic for 30 years good control without complications and regular endocrinologist. No heart symptomology Good lab work. No real swallowing probs at all. Just cough sputum a few times. It has crossed my mind about HPV infection or ultimately CA. I have had an occasional tryst. ENT available? Could it be fungal? I also read that 10% of men carry oral HPV and it generally clears. But I know that cancer rates are really increasing for oral HPV

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
The symptoms seem to be related to a yeast infection in the throat.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

The symptoms seem to be related to a yeast infection in the throat.

The yeast infection is very common in patients with diabetes.

The white lesions in the throat that you mentioned in the query are commonly related to this condition.

I suggest to use antifungal oral medication such as Nystatin tablets 3 tablets a day.

I also recommend to use Nystatin oral suspension.

You should gargle and then swallow the medication.

I suggest to maintain blood sugar under control.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (3 hours later)

Thank you. You didn’t say if this is prescription or what dose or for how long. Could you please write out what you would prescribe exactly so I can proceed. Can you write the prescription for me? I have been a little embarrassed about it. I also worry but have no proof about a halitosis from this. Any references you would recommend? Will this clear it up? Thank you Dr Gurabarhdi

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (15 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Follow up is explained below.

Detailed Answer:
Hi again dear,

Nystatin is a prescription medication.

I suggest to take one tablet three times a day for seven days.

We can't give an online prescription, so you should consult your doctor about the prescription.

The halitosis is a common symptom of this diagnosis.

Once the fungal infection will clear up the halitosis will also go away.

Meanwhile, I suggest to use a mouth rinse that kills the bacteria.

I also recommend a toothpaste that contains an antibacterial such as Parodontax Clean Mint Toothpaste.

Hope my answer was helpful.

Take care dear,

Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (2 hours later)

Thank you Dorina, (if I may),
I appreciate your responses. It does make me feel better and I will follow your recommendations. I have been so worried about head and neck CA. What you recommend seems to make good sense. I will essentially close out conversation but if you have any other information for me I will gladly accept. Thank you again,
XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
You are welcome, dear.

Detailed Answer:
Hi again dear,

I am glad that could help you.

I may recommend to maintain the blood sugar under control and maintain good oral hygiene.

You are welcome anytime for other queries in the future.

Wishing you good health.

Take care,

Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee