DEAR DR. GOTT: I recently went to a specialist for a knot in my throat. It’s hard to the touch and interferes with blowing a steady stream from my nose and breathing. I have also lost the gag reflex on the right side of my throat.
The physician stated that I have a pharyngeal tubular, gave me a prescription for Nexium, and indicated if I took two twice a day for eight weeks, it should take care of the problem. He also recommended that I see another specialist to have the test where the throat is numbed and a camera is used to check your esophagus.
I have no health insurance, and that is just not something I can afford. I have increased my OTC Prilosec, and since doing this I have noticed that, particularly when I eat, I have some discomfort. I also have pain about the time the food is going down the esophagus. Could you please explain more about this problem? Any additional information you have would be greatly appreciated.
DEAR READER: I believe you are referring to your pharyngeal tubercle. This is a normal part of anatomy and is essentially an anchor that attaches and separates the three pairs of constrictor muscles of the pharynx (throat) to the basilar part of the occipital bone (part of the skull).
That being said, I am unclear how Nexium would be beneficial. It is primarily used to reduce symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and in the treatment of Barrett’s esophagus (cellular changes to the lining of the esophagus). Perhaps acid reflux is at the root of your problem?
To determine exactly what is causing your symptoms, you need to undergo the recommended endoscopy (the test to which you refer). I understand that money is an issue; however, your health is important, and you are already experiencing unpleasant symptoms. You need to be thoroughly examined and tested to determine the exact cause and what treatment options you have. I also recommend that you decrease your OTC Prilosec to see if your difficulty swallowing and pain lessen or disappear.
Because I am not an otolaryngologist (ear-nose-and-throat specialist) and this part of anatomy is rarely discussed, I am unsure what other steps you should take. Call the specialist’s office, explain the situation and ask about setting up a payment plan. If he or she will not work with you, find another specialist who will. You may also benefit from calling your local hospital to ask about discounted medical procedures for those without insurance, help finding a specialist, and getting assistance in finding affordable health insurance.
Readers who are interested in learning more can order my Health Report “Hiatal Hernia, Acid Reflux and Indigestion” by sending a self-addressed, stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 U.S. check or money order to Dr. Peter Gott, P.O. Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title, or print an order form from my website: www.AskDrGottMD.com/order_form.pdf.
