Throat Trouble

I had been having ear problems and the ENT put me on a course of antibiotics and steriods. My stomach got irriated and I started taking Prevacid. On day I took the Prevacid as usual and a short time later my throat swelled up like anaphalaxis. Overnight it went away. The next day I tried a Pepcid, it did the same thing. The next day I tried another medicine and it did the same. Ever since that time I eat food and the same thing will happen. I have stopped taking all medicine because of the reaction. This even happens with water. My throat feels very full and either inflammed or swollen inside. Lately the inside of my mouth often swells. Been to gastro's, allergists and ENT's. Had endoscopy and many other test, but no one knows for sure. The best guess is that maybe I had reflux so badly that it burned the esophagus and now every time something hits that area it further irritates it. I am desperate for an answer - has anyone had this problem?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

One possibility could be angioedema, which can cause throat swelling as well.  Your ENT should consider this disease, and various blood tests, including complement levels as well as a beta-tryptase concentration, would be appropriate for initial evaluation.  

A laryngoscopy can also be considered to see if there is any anatomical swelling.

To completely rule out GERD, a 24-hr pH study can be considered.  If it was indeed uncontrolled, it may be possible that the inflammation in the esophagus could contribute to your symptoms.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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