How Long Does It Take for a Cough to Clear?
Most coughs clear on their own within 3 to 4 weeks, although some can last longer depending on the cause. A cough after a cold or other infection can sometimes continue even after you otherwise feel better. A cough lasting more than 8 weeks is generally considered a chronic cough and should be assessed by […]
What Is the Difference Between Tonsillitis and Tonsil Stones?
Tonsillitis and tonsil stones are two different conditions that affect the tonsils. Tonsillitis is inflammation, usually caused by a viral infection and sometimes by bacteria, while tonsil stones are small, hardened collections of material that form in the small pockets of the tonsils. Tonsillitis commonly causes a sore throat, fever and swollen tonsils, whereas tonsil […]
Can Tonsils Grow Back After a Tonsillectomy?
Tonsils should not grow back after a tonsillectomy because the tonsils have been fully removed. The only instance may be if there was a partial tonsillectomy because some tonsil tissue is deliberately left behind. Children who have had this type of surgery can develop some regrowth over time. Key Takeaways Can tonsils really […]
Why Do I Cough After Eating or Drinking?
Coughing after eating or drinking can happen because food or liquid has irritated your throat, gone down the wrong way, or triggered acid reflux. If it happens often, however, it may be a sign of a swallowing problem called dysphagia and should be checked by a GP. Key Takeaways For professional advice and help, speak […]
Why Does My Cough Get Worse At Night or When Lying Down?
A cough that gets worse at night or when lying down is often caused by mucus draining down the back of the throat, acid reflux, asthma or irritation in the airways. When you lie flat, mucus and stomach acid can move more easily towards the throat, while changes in your breathing patterns during sleep can […]
What is Involved in a Tonsillectomy?
A tonsillectomy is an operation to remove the tonsils, which are two small areas of tissue at the back of the throat. The procedure is usually carried out under a general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep during the operation. A tonsillectomy may be recommended if you have repeated episodes of tonsillitis, enlarged tonsils causing […]
What is Dysphagia?
Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty swallowing food, drinks or saliva. It can affect people in different ways, from finding certain foods difficult to swallow to being unable to swallow safely at all. Dysphagia is usually a symptom of another condition rather than a condition itself. It can increase the risk of choking, dehydration, […]
How Do Doctors Test for Swallowing Problems?
Doctors test for swallowing problems, also called dysphagia, by first asking about your symptoms and examining how you eat, drink and swallow. Depending on what they find, you may be referred to a speech and language therapist or a throat specialist. Tests can include a clinical swallowing assessment, a videofluoroscopy, an endoscopy or other investigations […]
What Should I Do if I Keep Getting Tonsillitis?
If you keep getting tonsillitis, the most important thing is to focus on symptom relief at home, reduce how often it comes back, and speak to a GP or throat specialist if it keeps recurring. Repeated tonsillitis can be caused by viral infections, bacterial infections, or sometimes irritated tonsils that become inflamed easily. In many […]
Why Does My Throat Hurt When I Swallow?
If your throat hurts when you swallow, it is usually because the tissues in your throat are irritated or inflamed. The most common cause is a viral infection, such as a cold or flu, although tonsillitis, strep throat, allergies, acid reflux and smoking can also cause discomfort. Most sore throats improve on their own within […]