Many people have experienced cobblestone throat without realizing it. These bumps on the back of a person’s throat can appear for several reasons. They may be due to allergies, a sinus infection, or postnasal drip. This condition isn’t dangerous, but it can look scary. When the underlying cause resolves, the cobblestoning will disappear
Understanding Cobblestone Throat
Inflammation of the throat can bring about cobblestone throat. When these bumps develop, a person might worry that they have cancer or another serious condition, but fortunately, they will cause no harm. The bumps are fluid-filled tissues and a natural response to an irritant in the throat.
Diagnosing Cobblestone Throat
Diagnosing cobblestone throat is not tricky. The bumps are easy to see, and they look like pebbles. They may be discolored, inflamed, or irritated, and most people find they have a sore throat when these bumps appear. However, other symptoms may also accompany the bumps.
A person might say their throat is scratchy or tickly, or that they feel as if something is lodged in it. Bad breath and a dry cough are other symptoms of cobblestone throat; the individual may have a fever or experience pain when they talk or swallow. Hoarseness and nasal congestion may also accompany the bumps.
Can Cobblestone Throat Be Passed to Others?
Individuals might worry that they are contagious when they see these bumps. The bumps themselves cannot be transmitted from person to person. However, if the bumps are the result of a viral or bacterial infection, the infection may be transmitted, depending on the type.
What Causes Cobblestone Throat?
Many things can cause the tonsils and adenoids to become swollen and irritated. Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease are two common causes of cobblestone throat. The bumps may appear when a person has a cold, the flu, a sinus infection, or allergies. Smoking or vaping increases a person’s risk of cobblestone throat, as does breathing dry air. Anyone with an upper respiratory infection or sexually transmitted infection is also at higher risk of cobblestone throat.
Treating Cobblestone Throat
Treating cobblestone throat requires treating the underlying cause of the inflammation or postnasal drip. Many people find that their immune system naturally fights off viral and bacterial infections. If the infection does not resolve, the individual should see their doctor for treatment, as medications may be needed to minimize the inflammation and irritation.
Individuals can take steps at home to treat the cobblestone throat. Sore throat home remedies are beneficial, and the individual should avoid known allergens that trigger upper respiratory conditions and other respiratory tract issues. Over-the-counter steroid nasal sprays often help address this condition, as do antihistamines and decongestants.
Recovering From Cobblestone Throat
Most people find the bumps associated with cobblestone throat disappear within a week or two. However, the underlying cause dictates how long they remain. If the bumps are caused by acid reflux or allergies, for example, they will stick around longer.
Preventing Cobblestone Throat
Individuals can take steps to prevent cobblestone throat. They should not smoke, vape, or be around secondhand smoke. Identifying known triggers and avoiding them can help reduce the risk of this condition. Individuals should also lead a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, and get ample sleep.
Cobblestone throat is not something a person needs to worry about. However, if symptoms persist despite home treatment, it may be time to call the doctor. Severe throat pain or difficulty breathing should also prompt a visit to a doctor for treatment. With their help, the cobblestone throat can be quickly resolved.
