[19F] Experiencing sore throat, tonsil stones, and recent vision changes

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female has been experiencing a sore throat in the mornings for several months, which improves after expectorating clear mucus. She also reports occasional tonsil stones. Recently, she has noticed a slight worsening in her vision, described as a bit more blurry, with a minor sensitivity to light but no other eye-related symptoms. The patient has a long-standing history of anxiety, which exacerbates when considering her health symptoms, identifying as a hypochondriac. No fever, chills, joint pains, weight loss, or night sweats were reported. There is no mention of substance use. The patient's anxiety has been a lifelong issue, and it is currently affecting her daily life and well-being.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possible conditions:

  • Postnasal Drip: This is a common condition where the glands in your nose and throat produce mucus, which then accumulates in the back of your throat. This can cause a feeling of something being stuck in your throat and lead to a sore throat, especially in the morning.

  • Tonsilloliths (Tonsil Stones): These are hard deposits that form in the tonsils. They can cause a feeling of something being stuck in the throat and may contribute to a sore throat and bad breath.

  • Refractive Errors: This is a common eye disorder that causes blurry vision. It occurs when the shape of your eye doesn't bend light correctly, resulting in a blurred image.

  • Anxiety: Chronic anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including a feeling of a lump in the throat (globus sensation). It can also exacerbate the perception of other symptoms.

Please note that these are possible conditions based on the symptoms you've provided and you should seek a formal diagnosis from a healthcare professional.

What you can do

  1. For postnasal drip, try drinking plenty of fluids and using a humidifier at night. Over-the-counter remedies like decongestants and antihistamines may also help.

  2. For tonsil stones, good oral hygiene can help prevent their formation. This includes brushing your teeth and tongue regularly, and gargling with salt water.

  3. For refractive errors, an eye exam is necessary to determine the exact issue and to get a prescription for glasses or contact lenses if needed.

  4. For anxiety, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. They can provide strategies to manage anxiety, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or medication.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms such as high fever, difficulty breathing, severe headache, or sudden worsening of vision, seek immediate medical attention.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What causes postnasal drip and how can it be managed?

Postnasal drip occurs when excess mucus accumulates in the back of the throat. It can be managed by staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and possibly using over-the-counter decongestants or antihistamines.


How do tonsil stones form and what can be done to prevent them?

Tonsil stones form when debris, such as food particles, dead cells, and mucus, become trapped in the tonsils and calcify. Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and gargling with salt water, can help prevent them.


What are refractive errors and how are they treated?

Refractive errors are vision problems that occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing directly on the retina. They are commonly treated with prescription glasses or contact lenses, and sometimes corrective surgery.


How can anxiety affect physical health and what are some ways to manage it?

Anxiety can manifest physically, causing symptoms like a lump in the throat or increased sensitivity to other symptoms. Managing anxiety may involve therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, or medication, and lifestyle changes like regular exercise and mindfulness practices.


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