[36M] Experiencing unilateral throat pain when swallowing

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

• Tonsillitis: This is an inflammation of the tonsils, which are the two lymph nodes located on each side of the back of your throat. Tonsillitis can cause a sore throat, redness, and pain that is often worse on one side. It's usually caused by a viral infection, but can also be caused by a bacterial infection. If your symptoms persist, your doctor may want to test you for strep throat, which is a bacterial infection that can cause tonsillitis.

  • Treatment for tonsillitis caused by a bacterial infection usually involves antibiotics. For viral tonsillitis, treatment involves managing symptoms until your body fights off the virus.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): You mentioned that you have a history of GERD. This condition can cause a variety of symptoms, including a sore throat. This happens when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and potentially cause a sore throat.

  • Treatment for GERD usually involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. If these don't help, your doctor might recommend prescription medications or surgery.

• Throat Infection: Even though you've already taken a round of antibiotics, it's possible that the infection wasn't completely cleared. This could be why your throat is still sore.

  • Treatment for a throat infection usually involves antibiotics. If your symptoms persist, your doctor may want to try a different antibiotic.

What you can do

Here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

1. Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated can help soothe a sore throat.
2. Try a warm saltwater gargle: Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in one cup of water. If the salty taste is too unpleasant for you, try adding a small amount of honey to sweeten the mixture slightly. Remember to spit the water out after gargling, rather than swallowing!
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers: You can take over-the-counter pain relievers to help with the pain. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the bottle.
4. Rest your voice: Try not to talk too much or shout, as this can strain your throat and make the pain worse.

What you should look out for

Here are some signs that you should seek medical attention:

• If your symptoms persist for more than a week after finishing your antibiotics
• If you have difficulty swallowing or breathing
• If you develop a fever, or if your pain becomes severe
• If you start to lose weight without trying

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. You should reach out to a healthcare professional who can provide a formal diagnosis and discuss treatment options with you.