[19F] With chronic sore throat and respiratory symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few possible explanations for your chronic sore throat and related symptoms:

1. Chronic Allergic Rhinitis or Postnasal Drip: Your symptoms, including a persistent sore throat, sensation of throat blockage, and worsening in certain environments, could be related to allergies. Allergic rhinitis can cause postnasal drip, leading to throat irritation and a feeling of blockage. The fact that your symptoms worsen in the summer suggests a possible seasonal allergy component.

2. Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD): This condition can cause symptoms like throat tightness, difficulty breathing, and changes in voice. It can be triggered by exercise or environmental factors, which aligns with your experience of symptoms worsening with physical activity and in steam.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Although you didn't mention heartburn, GERD can sometimes cause a chronic sore throat, hoarseness, and a sensation of a lump in the throat due to acid irritation.

4. Chronic Laryngitis: This could be due to ongoing irritation from allergies, reflux, or environmental factors, leading to hoarseness and throat discomfort.

Typical treatments or testing might include allergy testing, a referral to an ENT specialist for a thorough examination, or possibly a trial of medications like antihistamines or proton pump inhibitors if GERD is suspected.

What you can do

Managing Allergies:

• Consider using over-the-counter antihistamines to see if they help alleviate your symptoms.
• Try to avoid known allergens, such as pollen, by keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons and using air purifiers.
• Stay hydrated to help thin mucus and soothe your throat.

Vocal Cord Dysfunction:

• Practice breathing exercises that focus on relaxing the throat and vocal cords. A speech therapist can provide guidance on these techniques.
• Avoid irritants like smoke and strong odors that can trigger symptoms.

General Throat Care:

• Use a humidifier in your home to keep the air moist, which can help soothe your throat.
• Avoid whispering, as it can strain your vocal cords more than speaking softly.
• Stay cool and avoid overheating, as this seems to trigger your symptoms.

Remember, these are general suggestions, and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

What you should look out for

Given the chronic nature of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical evaluation to rule out any serious underlying conditions. You should seek care more urgently if you experience:

• Severe difficulty breathing or wheezing that doesn't improve with rest.
• Persistent or worsening chest pain.
• Any new or concerning symptoms.

Consider using MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share your notes with a healthcare provider. This can help in identifying patterns and triggers, and in developing an effective management plan.