I have suffered with a chronic tickle or itch in my throat, particularly when I am lying down, or when sitting a certain way, such as on the toilet or at my computer. After 18 years of tests, being diagnosed with and treated for: asthma (don't have it), GERD (don't have it), allergies (don't have them), I finally ended up at a gastroenterologist who did a manometry study and barium swallow. I was then diagnosed with Achalasia, and one month ago underwent a laparoscopic Heller myotomy with a Dor fundoplication. Over the years prior to the operation, I had noticed, and reported to my doctor, occasional swallowing problems. I was treated for GERD at those times. The swallowing problems came and went, but the itch in my throat continued. I never lost weight or consciously noticed that my food wasn't easily passing into my stomach. However, I thought it was normal to feel hunger in my chest, and subsequently full in my chest after eating. I am overweight and I have overeaten most of my life with hundreds of failed diets under my belt (literally!).
I now can feel cold drinks go directly to my stomach. Food is still slow, but I no longer regurgitate it, and my chest never feels full, even when I eat a lot. I am still on my soft food diet. Unfortunately, I still find that the itch is present. I am hoping that with the lessening of the swelling from the myotomy, my saliva will no longer work its way up to my vocal cords, irritating them so much. I know that a Heller myotomy can lead to instances of GERD, but what I am experiencing doesn't feel like heartburn. It feels like saliva working its way up my throat.
I cannot find any instance of others having Achalasia with symptoms of itching throat. Has anyone else experienced this? The manometry clearly showed Achalasia, so at least that has been treated.
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tickle in throat incessant coughing fits.