Treatment Options For Cobblestone Throat

Cobblestone throat is a condition characterized by throat irritation and swelling of the tonsils and adenoids. The most common cause of cobblestone throat is postnasal drip, an ailment that occurs when an excessive amount of mucus drips down the back of the throat. This can develop due to seasonal allergies, the common cold, influenza, and laryngopharyngeal reflux.

It may also be triggered by exposure to cold and dry air during the winter months. To diagnose cobblestone throat, doctors will visually inspect the patient's mouth and throat, looking for any signs of infection, swelling or irritation of the throat, tonsils, and adenoids. In general, cobblestone throat resolves quickly and is rarely dangerous.

Decongestants Or Antihistamines

Patients who have cobblestone throat may be advised to take decongestants or antihistamines. These medications are available over-the-counter, and doctors can also prescribe stronger versions when necessary. Decongestants work by reducing the mucus in the lining of the nose, alleviating postnasal drip, swelling, and congestion. Decongestants may be taken orally, and some are also available as nasal sprays or liquids. Potential side effects of decongestants include anxiety, elevated blood pressure, elevated heart rate, and insomnia.

Patients who have cardiovascular disease or hypertension should not use these medications. Antihistamines ease congestion and nasal stuffiness by reducing the levels of histamine in the body. Patients who have epilepsy, hypertension, diabetes, glaucoma, or cardiovascular disease should talk to a doctor before taking an antihistamine. Potential side effects of antihistamines include drowsiness, upset stomach, nervousness, irritability, dizziness, and weight gain.

Losing Excess Weight

Losing excess weight may reduce postnasal drip and other symptoms of cobblestone throat in some patients. To lose weight, doctors recommend eating a healthy diet based around fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fast food, fried foods, and foods high in saturated fat should all be limited. In addition, patients aiming to lose weight should try to exercise a minimum of 150 minutes per week. Brisk walking, swimming, gardening, dancing, and household chores can all count as part of a patient's weekly exercise. Patients struggling to lose weight may wish to have a series of consultations with a nutritionist or dietitian who can help with healthy meal planning.

Practicing healthy stress management techniques such as yoga and meditation may help individuals lose weight more easily, and patients should aim to get at least seven hours of sleep each night. Lack of sufficient sleep can interfere with the hormones that regulate appetite, causing patients to feel hungry and crave sugary, high-fat foods. For patients who have serious difficulty losing weight, prescription medications to suppress appetite and block the absorption of dietary fat may be appropriate. Patients may also wish to consider keeping a food diary through an online app or joining a weight loss support group.