It sounds like you may have a swollen uvula, which is a condition called uvulitis. The uvula is the small, fleshy drop of tissue that hangs down from the back of the soft palate in the throat. It helps to keep food and drink from going up the nose when we swallow, and it also plays a role in speech.
There are many different things that can cause a swollen uvula, including:
Infections, such as strep throat, mononucleosis, or the flu
Allergies
Injury
Smoking
Dry air
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
In some cases, the cause of a swollen uvula is unknown.
Symptoms of uvulitis can include:
A sore throat
Difficulty swallowing
A feeling of something stuck in the back of the throat
Drooling
A change in voice
Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)
If you have a swollen uvula, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions and to get the appropriate treatment. Treatment for uvulitis will depend on the underlying cause. If the uvula is swollen due to an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If the uvula is swollen due to an allergy, antihistamines may be prescribed. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a swollen uvula.
In the meantime, there are some home remedies that you can try to relieve the symptoms of uvulitis:
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Gargle with warm salt water several times a day.
Suck on lozenges or hard candy to keep your throat moist.
Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.
If you have difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately.
Here are some additional tips for coping with a swollen uvula:
Avoid eating and drinking hot or spicy foods and beverages, as these can irritate the throat.
Eat soft, bland foods that are easy to swallow.
Avoid lying down flat, as this can put pressure on the throat.
Elevate your head when you sleep.
Use a saltwater nasal spray to clear out any mucus that may be contributing to the swelling.
If your symptoms do not improve after a few days, or if they worsen, be sure to see a doctor.