What is the difference between your tonsils and your uvula

Infections that cause the nasal passages to block up and force you to breathe through your mouth make it easier to develop uvulitis. While a sore throat , and by extension a swollen uvula, can be a symptom of coronavirus , Yale Medicine laryngologist, Dr. There are certain environmental and lifestyle factors that can inhibit proper uvula function and contribute to uvulitis, including:. Your uvula can be damaged during procedures that are done in close proximity to the area, such as a tonsillectomy or intubation.

Frequent vomiting or acid reflux can also cause your throat and uvula to become irritated. While uncommon, a swollen uvula and uvulitis can be caused by a condition called hereditary angioedema.

Unlike uvulitis, an elongated uvula is a genetic condition that causes similar symptoms such as trouble breathing and sleep apnea. An elongated uvula can only be treated through surgery. When you have uvulitis, your uvula will feel sore and appear red and inflamed. Your uvula may even touch your tongue or throat, making it feel as if something is stuck in the back of your throat. In some cases, the sound of your voice may also be affected.

If you have a swollen uvula along with a fever or pain, you should speak with a doctor. This could be an indication of an underlying medical issue that needs to be treated. A swollen uvula will appear larger and redder than a normal uvula—something you can examine by opening your mouth and looking into a mirror. In some cases, the cause can be obvious, like an allergic reaction. If you feel like your breathing or swallowing is blocked due to a swollen uvula, go to the ER immediately or call Whether you are treating a swollen uvula with home remedies or you plan to see a doctor, you should ask yourself the following questions:.

Sometimes, answering these questions can help you determine the cause without seeking additional medical assistance. If results from those tests are inconclusive, you may need to see an allergist. Blood and skin tests can help identify foods or other substances that cause a reaction. When you have something like the common cold, swelling usually clears up on its own without treatment. Otherwise, treatment will depend on the cause. Usually, treating the underlying cause will resolve the uvulitis.

Viral infections tend to clear up without treatment. Influenza is the only upper respiratory infection that has an antiviral medication available. Antibiotics can treat bacterial infections.

Even after symptoms clear up, take all the medication as prescribed. If you test positive for an allergy, try to avoid the allergen in the future. Doctors usually treat allergies with antihistamines or steroids. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. Doctors use epinephrine to treat this reaction. Most of the time it clears up without treatment.

Sometimes the swelling can be treated with a home remedy. However, sometimes uvulitis is caused by a medical condition that needs to be treated. They can help you find the cause and appropriate treatment for your uvulitis and may be able to offer tips on how to prevent it from happening again. Snoring may disrupt your sleep, or that of your partner. Even if it's not bothering you too much, it's not a condition to ignore.

There are many conditions that can cause white spots on your throat. Learn more about causes and how you can treat this symptom.

Tonsillitis can be caused by various viruses or bacteria. With uvulitis, a person may feel as if something is stuck in the back of their throat as well as experience difficulty swallowing. In some cases, the sound of the voice may also be affected. Bacterial and viral infections such as strep throat , mononucleosis, or respiratory tract infections can cause uvulitis. This leads them to breathe through their mouths. Infectious uvulitis typically occurs with other conditions, such as an infection of the mouth or throat.

Any of these conditions can lead to inflammation in the throat, which may then lead to uvulitis. An elongated uvula is a hereditary trait. Though it may not swell, it can cause similar symptoms due to the size. Hereditary angioedema is a rare genetic condition that causes swelling throughout the body, and it can affect the uvula.

Too much smoking and alcohol can also lead to mouth irritation, which can result in uvulitis. Breathing in chemicals can also cause swelling.

Some people may experience some swelling in their uvula after surgery. General anesthesia can cause irritation and a swollen uvula. Trauma from tubes inserted into the throat can also lead to uvulitis.

Mild cases of uvulitis can often be treated at home. There are a few home remedies that can be used to treat the problem. People with a swollen uvula are advised to do the following:. Home remedies coupled with over-the-counter pain-relief medications can usually clear up a swollen uvula in a couple of days. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.

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