Is a swollen uvula an emergency?
When to Seek Emergency Care Because the uvula hangs at the back of the mouth directly in the airway, swelling can turn into a medical emergency. If you experience shortness of breath or difficulty with swallowing, or if your pain becomes worse or you feel noticeably sicker, seek professional help immediately.
How long does a swollen uvula usually last?
Uvulitis usually resolves in 1 to 2 days either on its own or with treatment.
What helps a swollen uvula?
The uvula is sometimes swollen due to dry mouth or dehydration, so water is the best medicine. Gargling with warm water and plain table salt can help to soothe a sore throat. Throat lozenges such as eucalyptus cough drops or throat spray can help to numb the pain.
Do I need to go to the doctor for Uvulitis?
Call your doctor or nurse call line now or seek immediate medical care if: You have new or worse symptoms of infection, such as: Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness. Red streaks leading from the area.
Should I go to the hospital if my uvula is swollen?
If you are experiencing an uncomplicated case of a swollen uvula, drinking cold fluids or sucking/eating ice chips may ease your pain and help the swelling to go down. But if the uvula swells so much that you can’t swallow or talk, or you have difficulty breathing, you should go to the nearest emergency room.
What causes swollen uvula?
Infections are among the most common causes of a swollen uvula. These infections may be caused by bacteria or viruses. Bacterial infections are typically treated with prescription antibiotics, while viral infections are frequently left to run their course, although antiviral medications may be prescribed in some cases.
When the uvula is swollen?
A swollen uvula is often seen as an allergic reaction, in those, who are prone to allergies. Viral and bacterial infections may also cause uvula swelling. Another reason is exposure to extreme hot food or drink, which can burn the uvula that may appear swollen.
Why is my throat swollen but not sore?
Causes of swollen tonsils with no sore throat. When one contracts some viral or bacterial infection after the contact with an infected person, it may be one of the causes of the swollen tonsils with no sore throat.
How do you get uvulitis?
Uvulitis is severe swelling of your uvula. The uvula is the small piece of tissue that hangs in the back of your throat. Uvulitis is usually caused by an infection, an injury to the back of the throat, or an allergic reaction.