How Do You Treat A Swollen Uvula?
The uvula is a flap of tissue that hangs at the back of the throat between the tonsils. Its purpose is to block food from entering the nasal passage during eating. It also functions in speech helping to form consonant sounds in certain non-English languages. The uvula can become inflamed, swollen, and irritated causing pain or difficulty swallowing. There are several causes of a swollen uvula and the swelling can be an isolated occurrence or a re-occurring problem. Swelling of the uvula usually resolves itself. If the swelling does not begin to improve within eight to twelve hours or you have a fever with the swelling, contact your medical provider. If the swelling interferes with breathing get medical help immediately. Stop smoking. Smoking irritates the throat and uvula and can lead to swelling and pain. Drink alcohol in moderation. Excessive alcohol irritates the throat causing redness, pain, and swelling of the uvula. Give your voice a rest. Throat irritation from yelling or excess
