What Causes Gurgling Sound While Swallowing Saliva?

Posted on Mon, 27 Jul 2015

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

Mon, 27 Jul 2015 Answered on

Tue, 18 Aug 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : In the last 3 weeks my throat makes a loud noise/gurgle everytime I swallow saliva that others can hear. I'm 59 and this never happened before. I had an endoscopy last week and they found nothing wrong with my esophagus but found I had celiac disease so I am on a gluten free diet. I also have Graves disease the last 8 years but my thyroid seems normal size.

Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Either normal or reflux. Rarely a diverticulum.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. The gurgling sounds or loud noise can be turbulence or air from the esophagus mixing with the saliva. This would signify a reflux. A trial with anti-reflux medication should be sone.

2. Sometimes the loud sounds are from normal moving structures.

3. Rarely, an esophageal diverticulum can cause such symptoms.

4. A Dynamic Swallow Study will help. Upload the result for further discussion and treatment options.

I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more 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. Vinay Bhardwaj