Throat Conditions

Recurrent tonsillitis

Recurrent tonsillitis is when a child or adult has tonsilitis several times a year. It is commonly caused by viruses or bacteria that require treatment with antibiotics. Surgery may help relieve symptoms.

Tonsillar hypertrophy (large tonsils)

Tonsillar hypertrophy is when the tonsils become swollen or enlarged – typically due to infection. If the tonsils are causing symptoms surgery may be needed.

Tonsil stones

Tonsil stones are small lumps that can form in the tonsils when debris collect in the small folds of the tonsils. Small tonsil stones may dislodge on their own but larger stones may need surgery.

Snoring

Air passing relaxed tissues in the throat causing them to vibrate is what makes the sound of snoring. It may be sign of other health conditions including obstructive sleep apnoea.

Obstructive sleep apnoea

Obstructive sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder where airflow is intermittently interrupted during sleep. It can happen at any age but is more common as we get older.

Globus

Globus describes the feeling of having a lump in your throat, even when there is nothing there. While not usually painful, it can be annoying, and treatment will depend on the cause.

Laryngopharyngeal reflux

Laryngopharyngeal reflux is when stomach acid travels up the oesophagus (feeding tube) and gets to the throat. It can cause a sore throat and an irritated voice box.

Hoarse voice

A hoarse voice is a condition called dysphonia. It may also sound rough, raspy, strained, weak or breathy. Voice changes can happen suddenly or over time and there may be a range of causes.

Salivary stones

Salivary duct stones are hardened mineral deposits that form in the salivary glands. If a stone blocks the opening of a salivary duct, the gland can become infected and surgery may be needed.

Neck lump

Neck lumps (neck mass) can have many different causes. Most are benign (non-cancerous) but they can be a sign of an underlying infection or other condition that requires treatment.

Thyroid nodule

A thyroid nodule is a small lump that forms within the thyroid gland in the neck. Most are benign and don't cause symptoms. Treatment may include medication and sometimes surgery is needed.