• Throat pain?

My brother is 17 and has been saying it hurts badly to swallow and he’s saying it feels swollen today. He sent a photo and it looks like a scab or something on his uvula. His ear has also started hurting today. Could it be strep and should we take him to his doctor?

7 Answers

  • Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT)
  • Calhoun, GA

Its not strep. It is a small sore on the uvula. Likely viral in nature. The doctor can't do anything for it, just has to heal. Mouthwashes can be helpful, or benzocaine throat lozenges are soothing.

  • Ear-Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT)
  • Owensboro, KY

The sores on the uvula suggest to me that these are aphthous ulcers. These are viral lesions similar to a cold sore. These can be very painful and last for 7 to 10 days. Symptomatic treatment can be helpful for pain relief (oragel) These often come in crops with several lesions over a prolonged period of time. Antiviral medicines may be somewhat effective, if used early,in limiting symptoms. (acyclovir)

  • Ear-Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT)
  • Hot Springs, AR

There is a small ulceration on his uvula. It could be one of several things
going on, but I would definitely have him checked out soon.

  • Ear-Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT)
  • Conway, SC

It could possibly be strep. I would take him to his primary care physician or pediatrician to be checked out.

  • Ear-Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT)
  • Plantation, FL

This does not appear to be a strep throat. This looks like an ulceration of the uvula. Many things can cause this including a burn from hot food, trauma from something bumping into it, infections or others. It will be important to ensure that this resolves. If it goes away on its own within 1-2 weeks, there is likely nothing to be concerned about. If however it persists or worsens it should be evaluated in person by a doctor.

  • Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT)
  • Bonita Springs, FL

This appears to be a small ulcer characteristic of a small canker sore. These are highly painful giving rise to referred ear pain and discomfort. This is usually not streptococcal infection. It usually lasts 7-10 days and dissipates spontaneously. No antibiotics are indicated. Treatment with cool water rinses.

  • Ear-Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT)
  • Detroit, MI

It appears to be an aphthous ulcer. Referred pain to the ear is very common. It's worth getting a more thorough examination in person.

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