Question: Since November 12th I have had a constant sore throat, occasional choking feeling that makes it hard to breath (but i have a clear airway) and either a very dry mouth and throat or super thick mucus that is uncomfortable . Most of the time it feels like I have a lump or pressure behind my uvula. I involuntarily swallow and clear my throat almost constantly. I am actively trying not to.

I have been in and out of clinics and ERs since novembr 12th (5 ers for choaking and 3 clinic visits) for these symptoms. Late November I went through antibiotics with no change. I started a ppi (once a day) on December 3 and have had no improvement. I have changed my diet to cut out caffeine, spicy food, acidic food, and other foods that are on the lists to avoid for acid reflux/lpr. I do not eat for 3 hours before bed. Also I do not smoke or drink.

Yesterday I changed form the ppi to an h2 blocker that I take twice a day (as per the advice of the last er I went to) no difference yet but too early to tell.

I have an ENT appointment on February 3 (earliest I could get) but I would like to get advice from an ENT before then as to what I can do to get rid of some of my symptoms. The ER and clinic Dr's all seem confused by my symptoms since the ppi has not helped.

Does anyone have any suggestions as to what the underlying cause could be and what I could do to stop the soreness in my throat and the choking?

I have not had any bacteria looking discoloration (white spots etc) and my mucus has been clear. Could I still have some bacterial infection without these symptoms?

For temporary relief before I can see a doctor (I will have to wait until January 4th at the earliest), is there anything goes you can recommend?

I have taken two pictures and uploaded them in the new reports section. What do you think? If I need to I can change the lighting etc.

Thank you