The uvula is a small structure that hangs at the back of the throat. Sometimes, the uvula swells causing difficulty swallowing, an urge to choke or choke, and even a tendency to drool in young children. There are several things that cause the uvula to swell, including viral and bacterial infections, allergies, dry mouth, acid reflux, or even genetics. If your uvula is red or swollen, relieve symptoms by gargling with warm water, sucking on lozenges, and chewing ice chips. If your symptoms do not improve, or if your child has swelling of the uvula, see a doctor as soon as possible.
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Method 1 of 3: Coping with Uvula Swelling
Step 1. Gargle with warm water and table salt
Warm water is a relief and salt can treat inflammation in the uvula. Do not use hot water which can burn the throat and cause further damage. Add to teaspoon of table salt in 250 ml of warm water, and stir until the salt dissolves.
You can gargle with warm salt water up to three times a day, but don't swallow it. Too much salt in the body can cause other problems
Step 2. Suck on lozenges
Use any brand, but if you feel uncomfortable or have difficulty swallowing, it's best to choose a type that provides a numbing effect.
Look for sugar-free throat lozenges, you can see the description on the packaging. The sugar-free type is good for people who have other complaints such as diabetes
Step 3. Drink hot tea and drink enough fluids
Hot water is very soothing to the throat and helps keep your body hydrated while you're trying to reduce swelling. Add honey to coat the throat for easier swallowing.
- Herbal teas are great for curing sore throats. Chamomile tea and a little honey will soothe the pain.
- You can also make cinnamon tea to soothe your throat. The ingredients for this recipe may be a bit tricky, but give it a try if you can get your hands on it. Mix 10 grams of slippery elm bark (Ulmus rubra) and marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis), 8 grams of cinnamon, 5 grams of dried orange peel and 3 whole cloves in 3 cups (750 ml) water and simmer for 20 minutes. Strain and add a little honey if you like. Spend in 36 hours.
Step 4. Chew the ice chips
Ice can reduce swelling of the uvula even a little. The cold can numb the throat a bit, making swallowing easier.
Step 5. See a doctor
There are many causes of a swollen uvula. When you see a doctor, share all your symptoms. Doctors can prescribe medication to reduce symptoms and treat the cause.
Your doctor may take a throat culture sample (swab test) to diagnose the cause of a swollen uvula. The process will be relatively easy if you can relax your throat as much as possible, and try not to strain
Step 6. Take antibiotics
Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if your uvula swells due to infection. Make sure you follow the recipe carefully. Take the antibiotics at the same time every day until they run out so that the infection is completely cured.
Method 2 of 3: Recognizing Symptoms
Step 1. Notice if you have difficulty swallowing
If it is difficult to swallow food, liquids, or even saliva, your uvula may swell. Try swallowing a few times to see if it hurts, not just a drink or too large a piece of food.
If you have difficulty swallowing and breathing, call your doctor immediately
Step 2. Notice if you ever choke or suffocate
If your uvula is swollen, you may be choking or feel suffocated even if there is nothing in your throat. Because the uvula hangs at the back of the throat, swelling can feel suffocating.
Step 3. Notice if the child is drooling
This symptom is especially important in children, who may not be able to tell what they are feeling. If your child is drooling more often than usual, his uvula may be swollen and he needs immediate medical attention.
Step 4. Check body temperature
Swollen uvula is usually caused by a bacterial infection which is usually accompanied by fever. If you have difficulty swallowing and are choking or choking, take your temperature to see if you have a fever. Everyone's normal temperature is different, but if it's more than 37 degrees celsius, you have a fever.
If you have a fever, see a doctor immediately. A fever can indicate a more serious problem, and a fever in children, even low, can be very dangerous
Step 5. See if there is any swelling or redness
If you suspect your uvula is swollen, check in a mirror. Use a mirror that is high enough or hold a hand mirror. Open your mouth as wide as possible and look at your uvula. If it is red or swollen, see a doctor.
Method 3 of 3: Preventing a Swollen Uvula
Step 1. Avoid alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol can cause the uvula to swell. If your uvula is swollen and heals on its own, try reducing your alcohol intake.
If reducing your alcohol intake does not improve your condition, and your uvula remains swollen, see a doctor
Step 2. Quit smoking
Cigarettes and their smoke are irritants, and if the throat is exposed to a lot of smoke, the uvula can swell. If this problem of swollen uvula persists, stop smoking.
Step 3. Take allergy medication
Since a swollen uvula is a sign of an allergic reaction, take your usual allergy medication. If you've never been diagnosed with an allergy, but your uvula swells when you eat certain foods, see your doctor immediately. Any food allergic reaction that causes swelling in the throat should be treated immediately because it can affect the ability to breathe.
Step 4. Overcome the problem of acid reflux
If the rise in stomach acid is contributing to a swollen uvula, try to manage the symptoms. In addition to taking antacids, try to eat smaller portions and avoid foods that trigger reactions. If it's difficult to control, talk to your doctor to plan specific treatment.
