The uvula is known to get swollen and inflamed due to a host of causes. An inflamed uvula results in severe pain and discomfort. The individual may experience a choking sensation in the throat, depending up on the size of the swelling. The uvula may swell and enlarge up to 5 times its normal size.
Apart from cold, infection, allergy, acid reflux, and inflammation of the tonsils, the uvula is known to swell due to excessive alcohol consumption.
Swollen Uvula Caused By Drinking Alcohol
Those who indulge in undue alcohol consumption may occasionally develop a swelling of the uvula. Some people may be allergic to alcohol and they develop a swelling, as an allergic response. On the other hand, in most cases, the swelling occurs as a consequence of dehydration caused by the alcohol. Alcohol causes dehydration; since it is a diuretic, it increases the expulsion of urine and flushes water out from your body.
Also, alcohol has a lot of toxins and accordingly, it takes more water, for the body to sluice out these noxious substances.
Undue alcohol consumption leads to dehydration, which in turn, causes the uvula to swell after drinking. A swollen uvula is very common in alcoholics.
Home Remedies For Swollen Uvula Due To Alcohol
A swollen uvula is not a life-threatening condition, and can be easily managed with home remedies. These remedies help allay the swelling, inflammation, pain and discomfort in the uvula.
- First and foremost, you need to drink lots of fluids to rehydrate your body and replenish all the lost fluids. Make sure you have at least 12 to 15 glasses of water; additionally, have soups, broths and herbal teas.
- Have a lot of ice cream or cold water to soothe the throat, provided that you are not affected with cold.
- Increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Undoubtedly, you need to steer clear of alcohol, or at least reduce the consumption drastically.
- Honey: Honey is an amazing throat lubricant. It lubricates and moisturizes the throat tissues and gets rid of all irritation and discomfort almost immediately. Have a spoonful of honey, 6 to 8 times daily
- Ginger: Ginger is by far the best anti-inflammatory food. Packed with gingerols, this herb fights of swelling and inflammation promptly. Experts recommend having ginger tea several times in the day.
- Basil: Basil is another home remedy with the potential to reduce throat irritation and discomfort. Boil a few leaves in water; and consume the drink when lukewarm.
- Turmeric: Powdered turmeric with honey or jaggery reduces swelling and alleviates inflammation rapidly.
If the home remedies fail to give any relief, you could resort to over the counter drugs to soothe the pain and inflammation, like throat sprays or pain killers. Keep lozenges in your mouth in order to prevent drying of the throat.
If the condition does not subside after 2 to 3 days, you need to consult your health care provider. He may order a few tests and investigations and start you on to a few medications.
Those who are allergic to alcohol must seek medical attention, if they develop an allergic reaction, like swollen uvula. If the condition persists beyond a week, you must approach an ENT specialist at the earliest.