General Information About Swollen Uvula
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the inflammation and edema of the soft tissue (uvula) that hangs down from the roof of the throat when we open our mouths, caused by various irritations or microbes.
Bacterial throat infections (streptococcus), trauma to the tissue due to its vibration from severe snoring, stomach acid escaping into the throat (reflux), consumption of extremely hot food, and allergic reactions (angioedema) are the main causes.
A constant feeling of a lump or something stuck in the throat, pain while swallowing, excessive saliva secretion, a muffled voice, and the uvula elongating down to the base of the tongue, triggering the cough reflex.
It is generally mild, but massive swellings occurring suddenly along with an allergic shock (anaphylaxis) can mechanically block the airway, causing emergency shortness of breath and suffocation.
An ENT physician or emergency doctor looking into the mouth is sufficient for diagnosis. The reddened, elongated uvula, swollen like a transparent water balloon, is easily visible.
Action is taken based on the cause. If there is a bacterial infection, antibiotics are started. If there is snoring trauma or a mild allergy, throat-soothing sprays and warm gargles are recommended. In cases threatening the airway, the swelling is quickly reduced with cortisone and adrenaline injections.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
