[47M] Experiencing severe phlegm, difficulty swallowing, and shortness of breath

Patient Description

A 47-year-old male has been experiencing significant difficulty swallowing, described as a sensation of the throat being closed, for at least a week. This issue has gradually worsened over time, affecting the patient's ability to swallow any food or drink equally. Accompanying symptoms include severe phlegm that the patient feels unable to clear, leading to a sensation of choking, and shortness of breath described as a feeling of not getting enough air, rated as 6 out of 10 in severity, which started a few days after the phlegm. The patient also reports hoarseness and fluctuating body temperatures, feeling either very hot or experiencing chills, but is unsure about having a fever. The patient's medical history includes acid reflux, for which they have been prescribed Omeprazole 40 MG. Other medications include Lisinopril 20mg, Atorvastatin 40mg, Quetiapine 50mg, and Amoxicillin 875 mg twice daily. There are no known allergies to medications. The patient's symptoms have not improved despite trying various remedies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible conditions include:

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a chronic condition where acid from your stomach flows back into your esophagus, causing symptoms like difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, and a feeling of a lump in the throat. Given your history of acid reflux, this could be a possibility.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In severe cases, prescription medications or surgery might be needed.

  • Esophagitis: This is inflammation that damages tissues of the esophagus, the muscular tube that delivers food from your mouth to your stomach. Esophagitis can cause painful, difficult swallowing and chest pain.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to decrease stomach acid and lifestyle changes.

  • Pharyngitis: This is inflammation of the back of the throat, which can cause difficulty swallowing and a feeling of a lump in the throat.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be necessary if the cause is bacterial.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information you've provided and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Continue taking your medications as prescribed by your doctor.
  2. Try to identify any foods or drinks that worsen your symptoms and avoid them.
  3. Stay hydrated and try to eat soft, smooth foods that are easy to swallow.
  4. Over-the-counter antacids may help with symptoms of GERD, but you should consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medications.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek immediate medical attention:

  • If your symptoms worsen or do not improve.
  • If you have difficulty breathing or experience chest pain.
  • If you are unable to eat or drink due to your symptoms.

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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9 mo ago

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People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of GERD and how can it be managed?

Common symptoms of GERD include heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and a sensation of a lump in the throat. Management typically involves lifestyle changes such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down after eating. Medications like antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors can also help reduce stomach acid.

How does esophagitis differ from GERD, and what are its treatment options?

Esophagitis is inflammation of the esophagus and can cause symptoms like painful swallowing, chest pain, and food getting stuck in the esophagus. It differs from GERD in that it specifically involves inflammation. Treatment often includes medications to reduce stomach acid and lifestyle changes, similar to GERD, but may also require addressing any underlying causes like infections or allergies.

What are the signs that pharyngitis might require medical treatment?

Pharyngitis, or inflammation of the throat, may require medical treatment if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by high fever, difficulty breathing, or if there is suspicion of a bacterial infection. In such cases, antibiotics may be necessary.

Can acid reflux medications like Omeprazole cause any side effects?

Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, can cause side effects such as headache, nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, or gas. Long-term use may lead to more serious effects like vitamin B12 deficiency, bone fractures, or kidney issues. It's important to use it as directed by a healthcare provider.

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1 Comments

Brian#4030

8 mo ago

A friend of mine also has GERD and is on omeprazole but occasionally has a lot of mucous that makes him clear his throat a lot and find it a little harder to swallow. His GI doctor recently have him a endoscopy to diagnose the issue and turns our that he has eosinophilic esophagitis

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