The uvula is a fleshy-like structure that hangs above the tongue in the back right in the middle of the throat. In some cases, the uvula may become swollen. What causes swollen tongue? how to treat? Read the following article of SignsSymptomsList to know more about this issue!
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1. What is uvula and uvulitis?
If you put your finger behind the upper front teeth, you will feel the stiffness of the upper jaw bone. Then slowly palpate back and forth, you will feel the transition from the bony area to a softer tissue area. That soft tissue area is called the soft palate. The uvula is part of the soft palate. The soft palate prevents food from flowing up into the nose when swallowed.
Swollen uvula is a sign of uvulitis. This condition causes discomfort, but is usually temporary. However, if the uvula is severe, it can affect your ability to swallow. Less commonly, this sometimes causes difficulty breathing.
There are many causes of swollen tongue, sometimes the disease can go away on its own or require treatment.
>>> See also: Numbness of the tongue and related diseases.
2. Symptoms of uvulitis
If you have uvulitis, your uvula will become red, bulging, and larger than usual. Vulvaritis can also be associated with:
If you have a swollen uvula along with a fever or abdominal pain, see your doctor right away. It could be a sign of an underlying medical condition that needs immediate treatment.
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3. Causes of swollen tongue
There are many different causes of uvulitis. Inflammation is the body's response to an attack. Inflammatory factors include:
3.1 Environmental factors and lifestyle
Several environmental and lifestyle factors can trigger reactions including swelling of the uvula. These factors include:
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3.2 Infections
Certain infections can irritate the uvula, leading to swelling of the uvula. These types of infections include:
If you have tonsillitis , the inflammation is so severe that it can push the uvula. In addition, immunocompromised patients are at increased risk of oral thrush. Both of these conditions can also cause the uvula to swell.
3.3 Injuries
Injuries to the uvula can be caused by disease or surgery. Excessive vomiting or acid reflux can also irritate the throat and uvula.
3.4 Heredity
A rare condition called hereditary angioedema can cause swelling of the uvula and throat, as well as swelling of the face, hands, and feet.
A long uvula is also an inherited condition in which the uvula is larger than normal. Sometimes it also causes shortness of breath. However, unlike inflammation, if treatment is needed, uvula can only be resolved with surgery.
4. Risk factors
Anyone can get a swollen uvula, but adults are less likely to get it than children. You are also at increased risk if you have:
5. What can you do?
If you have a swollen tongue or sore throat, that's your body's way of telling you something is wrong. There are a few things you can try at home to ease throat problems:
Make sure you drink enough water. If your throat hurts when you drink water, drink a small amount at a time.
Swollen uvula is an uncommon condition. Most cases will go away on their own without treatment. If the swelling of the uvula does not go away on its own and is causing difficulty breathing, you should see a doctor. Your doctor will help you find the cause and prescribe the right treatment.
Dr. Tran Thanh Long
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