Uvula is the fleshy mass, located in the back of the mouth, at the
center. As you open your mouth and look in the mirror, you will notice
it as a protruding structure than hangs from the soft palate. The main
purpose of uvula is production of various sounds with the help of air
coming in through the palate and throat. It also helps in minimizing
throat infection and directing ingested foods to the digestive tract.
Comprising muscle fibers and connective tissues, swollen uvula is a
commonly reported problem.
What Causes a Swollen Uvula?
An inflamed uvula or uvulitis is not a disease, but swelling of this mass is caused due to other health problems. Any disease that is concentrated in the throat region can lead to a swollen uvula. Constant dry throat is a leading cause for abnormal swelling of uvula. Those who have the habit of breathing through mouth during sleep are more prone to this uvula condition than other people. The probable reasons for uvula swelling are many, some of which are listed below.
Less water intake and dehydration
Inhalation of pollutants and irritants
Cigarette smoking or inhalation of fumes
Allergy to ingested foods
Allergy to mouth cleansing substances
Uvula piercing
Physical trauma to the throat area
Persistent cough
Bacterial infection of the throat (e.g. strep throat)
Viral throat infection (e.g. common cold)
Having very hot foods
Ulceration of the throat that affects uvula
Canker sores in the throat region
The most notable symptom that accompanies a uvulitis is pain in the throat region. Pain intensity is more at the time of swallowing foods, talking, and while indulging in any activity that involves movement of the swollen area. Usually, patients experience increased redness and itching along with uvula swelling. Such symptoms are indications of bacterial or viral infections, and require medications for treatment.
Treating a Swollen Uvula
Effective tips for how to cure a swollen uvula are decided in accordance to the root causes. So, identifying the factors responsible for swelling of this fleshy mass is a prerequisite before proceeding for swollen uvula treatment. For example; if swelling is manifested due to dry throat, then avoid shouting, breathing through mouth, and refrain from processed food items that contain high salt. Very soon, uvula will restore its normal state. Some of the effectual home remedies for swollen uvula, which you can practice are mentioned below.
Drinking ample amounts of fluids and water is a simple, yet effectual way for addressing a swollen uvula. This is specially applicable for people, who experience uvula swelling due to dehydration. Overall, it reduces uvula swelling and keeps the body hydrated.
Gargling with lukewarm salt water is effectual in treating a swollen uvula, which is developed due to infections. The saline solution aids in reducing pain and swelling, and treats infection. However, make sure that water temperature is tolerable to the sensitive mouth parts.
Another remedy is gargling with dilute apple cider vinegar. Add a teaspoon of cider vinegar in a cup of lukewarm water, and gargle with this solution. The mild acid kills bacteria and virus, and soothes pain.
Taking honey, aloe vera juice, and sipping holy basil tea also works wonders in reducing uvula swelling. Nevertheless, these natural remedies for a swollen uvula may take time to show prompt results.
These were some effectual swollen uvula remedies. Fortunately, uvula swelling is treated effectually with home remedies, without causing no major complications. The swelling usually disappears within 1 - 2 days even without treatment. However, seek medical attention right away, if the discomfort signs disturb normal eating, or they are accompanied with severe pain. Also, call the doctor, if swelling increases in the following days.
According to the severity of swelling and pain, the doctor may recommend medications, like pain killers, antihistamines, and antibiotics. You can effectually prevent a swollen uvula condition by adopting effectual self-care tips. A simple tip is, avoid sleeping on your back, specially after having salty foods in dinner. Try to sleep with your head elevated and consider lying on your side. For those who complain of frequent uvulitis bouts, adrenaline injections are delivered to prevent recurrent incidences.
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/how-to-treat-a-swollen-uvula.html
What Causes a Swollen Uvula?
An inflamed uvula or uvulitis is not a disease, but swelling of this mass is caused due to other health problems. Any disease that is concentrated in the throat region can lead to a swollen uvula. Constant dry throat is a leading cause for abnormal swelling of uvula. Those who have the habit of breathing through mouth during sleep are more prone to this uvula condition than other people. The probable reasons for uvula swelling are many, some of which are listed below.
Less water intake and dehydration
Inhalation of pollutants and irritants
Cigarette smoking or inhalation of fumes
Allergy to ingested foods
Allergy to mouth cleansing substances
Uvula piercing
Physical trauma to the throat area
Persistent cough
Bacterial infection of the throat (e.g. strep throat)
Viral throat infection (e.g. common cold)
Having very hot foods
Ulceration of the throat that affects uvula
Canker sores in the throat region
The most notable symptom that accompanies a uvulitis is pain in the throat region. Pain intensity is more at the time of swallowing foods, talking, and while indulging in any activity that involves movement of the swollen area. Usually, patients experience increased redness and itching along with uvula swelling. Such symptoms are indications of bacterial or viral infections, and require medications for treatment.
Treating a Swollen Uvula
Effective tips for how to cure a swollen uvula are decided in accordance to the root causes. So, identifying the factors responsible for swelling of this fleshy mass is a prerequisite before proceeding for swollen uvula treatment. For example; if swelling is manifested due to dry throat, then avoid shouting, breathing through mouth, and refrain from processed food items that contain high salt. Very soon, uvula will restore its normal state. Some of the effectual home remedies for swollen uvula, which you can practice are mentioned below.
Drinking ample amounts of fluids and water is a simple, yet effectual way for addressing a swollen uvula. This is specially applicable for people, who experience uvula swelling due to dehydration. Overall, it reduces uvula swelling and keeps the body hydrated.
Gargling with lukewarm salt water is effectual in treating a swollen uvula, which is developed due to infections. The saline solution aids in reducing pain and swelling, and treats infection. However, make sure that water temperature is tolerable to the sensitive mouth parts.
Another remedy is gargling with dilute apple cider vinegar. Add a teaspoon of cider vinegar in a cup of lukewarm water, and gargle with this solution. The mild acid kills bacteria and virus, and soothes pain.
Taking honey, aloe vera juice, and sipping holy basil tea also works wonders in reducing uvula swelling. Nevertheless, these natural remedies for a swollen uvula may take time to show prompt results.
These were some effectual swollen uvula remedies. Fortunately, uvula swelling is treated effectually with home remedies, without causing no major complications. The swelling usually disappears within 1 - 2 days even without treatment. However, seek medical attention right away, if the discomfort signs disturb normal eating, or they are accompanied with severe pain. Also, call the doctor, if swelling increases in the following days.
According to the severity of swelling and pain, the doctor may recommend medications, like pain killers, antihistamines, and antibiotics. You can effectually prevent a swollen uvula condition by adopting effectual self-care tips. A simple tip is, avoid sleeping on your back, specially after having salty foods in dinner. Try to sleep with your head elevated and consider lying on your side. For those who complain of frequent uvulitis bouts, adrenaline injections are delivered to prevent recurrent incidences.
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/how-to-treat-a-swollen-uvula.html
