Throat noises

I am a 36 year old male, in generally good health.  For about the past year, I have noticed gurgling sounds in my throat when I swallow, usually liquids, or just the normal swallowing of saliva.  This usually happens just after swallowing or a few seconds afterward.  Within the past few weeks, I've noticed that my throat will make these sounds just about everytime I swallow, my stomach will gurgle, or both.  I have not experienced any difficulty swallowing solids or liquids, but have been experiencing some mild heartburn as of late.  I do not have food or liquid come back into my mouth when I experience this sensation.  Any idea what could be the cause?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Tough to say without examination.  GERD and various ENT diseases can lead to the symptoms.

If there is difficulty swallowing, you can consider a barium swallow which can evaluate the swallowing mechanism.  This test is often linked to an upper GI series, which can evaluate for GERD.  

If these imaging tests remain negative, then an ENT evaluation (including a laryngoscopy) can be considered to look at the back of the throat.  

You can discuss these options with your personal physician or in consultation with a GI or ENT specialist.

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.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b