Your child's constant throat clearing could stem from several issues. It's crucial to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. However, some common causes include:
Potential Causes of Frequent Throat Clearing in Children
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Acid reflux (Laryngopharyngeal Reflux or LPR): Stomach acid irritating the throat is a frequent culprit. Healthline describes LPR as a common cause of chronic throat clearing. Excess stomach acid can irritate the throat, leading to the urge to clear it.
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Post-nasal drip: Allergies or sinusitis can cause excess mucus to drip down the back of the throat, triggering the need to clear it. This is mentioned in multiple sources, including UK Healthcare and Medical News Today.
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Vocal fold lesions: Irritation or damage to the vocal cords can also cause this symptom. This is mentioned as a possibility by UK Healthcare.
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Neurological conditions: Conditions like Tourette Syndrome can manifest as vocal tics, including throat clearing. Nemours KidsHealth and LiveStrong highlight this connection. Other motor or vocal tic disorders may also be responsible. University of Utah Healthcare also lists this as a possible cause.
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Swallowing Issues: Problems with swallowing can lead to a sensation of something being stuck in the throat, resulting in frequent throat clearing. This is mentioned in University of Utah Healthcare.
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Allergies: Allergic rhinitis, as noted by ENT Center of Greater Rochester, can contribute to postnasal drip and throat clearing.
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Medication side effects: Some medications can have throat irritation as a side effect.
Seeking Professional Help
Persistent throat clearing warrants a visit to the doctor. A thorough evaluation can pinpoint the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment. Delaying medical attention could prolong discomfort or worsen underlying conditions. This is emphasized by multiple sources, including UK Healthcare.
