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Forum Name: Ear Nose and Throat

Question: Throat problems

bcantrel - Sat Jun 18, 2005 1:37 am

What causes someone to feel like dust is in the lower part of their throat and their air almost completely cuts off, causing them to struggle to breathe? Seems to be worse in the summer months. My husband has this problem, and has been to the dr. who told him it was not Asthma or allergies, but didn't give him any answers as what causes this. He says it does not Itch or burn, but feels more dry and dusty. He gets to the point of being choked. Sometimes drinking a cold drink gives relief. What could this be??? Also, if he presses a certain point behind his ear, and a little below it, it makes his throat feel funny and makes him Cough. Is this related? Thank you for any help you can give.

Dr. Safaa Mahmoud - Fri Jun 30, 2006 10:26 pm

Dear bcantrel, Discomfort, pain, or scratchiness in the throat are all symptoms of sore throat. Mild difficulty in breathing is usually due to swelling in the throat or nasal congestion. Most cases of sore throat are due to viral infection e. g. as part of flu and cold attack. Bacterial infections on the other hand represent a smaller number of cases. Usually there are other associated symptoms and signs that can point to the possible causative agent. Viral induced sore throat usually subsides in week with rest and plenty fluid intake. Experts says that a sore throat that lasts for longer than a week is often caused by allergies, or exposure to humidity, smoking, irritation from heating and cooling systems. Repeated pharyngitis can also happen seasonally or all year long most commonly due to allergies and in this case usually the allergic individual wake up early in the morning with sore throat. In some cases it is believed to be due to a postnasal discharge. If a person suffers from recurring sore throats, it's also possible that his toothbrush needs to be changed as it may transmit the infection after recovers from his first attack. He better avoids exposing himself to any precipitating factor like cold drinks, smoking etc. A sore throat that does not improve or repeated with a short period of time should be investigated properly. By complete history and proper examination the physician can evaluate the cause of this recurrent sore throat and recommend treatment. Keep on follow up with your doctor. Best regards,

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