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What department should I visit for phlegm in the throat?

Mar 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the term "throat" refers to the pharynx. If there is phlegm in the throat, you may consider visiting departments such as respiratory medicine, otorhinolaryngology (ENT), gastroenterology, allergy, or traditional Chinese medicine. Please note that it is advisable to first observe any accompanying symptoms and then choose the appropriate department based on your own condition for timely and targeted treatment. At the same time, you should promptly avoid potential triggers to alleviate discomfort.

Generally speaking, the throat refers to the pharynx. If there is phlegm in the throat, one can choose to visit the departments of respiratory medicine, otorhinolaryngology, gastroenterology, allergy, or traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. The detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Respiratory Medicine

If there is phlegm in the throat accompanied by symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing, it is recommended to visit the department of respiratory medicine. Auscultation, chest X-ray, CT scans, and other examinations can help rule out upper respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

2. Otorhinolaryngology

If after having phlegm in the throat, one experiences symptoms such as sore throat, burning sensation, dryness, or difficulty swallowing, it is recommended to visit the otorhinolaryngology department. Laryngoscopy can be used for diagnosis and analysis to timely rule out conditions such as pharyngitis or tonsillitis.

3. Gastroenterology

If the patient also experiences symptoms like acid reflux or nausea, visiting the gastroenterology department is recommended. Diagnosis and analysis can then be conducted using examinations such as gastroscopy or esophagoscopy to rule out conditions like reflux esophagitis or reflux gastritis.

4. Allergy Department

If phlegm in the throat appears after exposure to allergens, accompanied by symptoms such as skin itching, redness, nasal congestion, or nasal itching, timely consultation with an allergy specialist is recommended. Allergen testing can aid in diagnosis and help rule out allergic rhinitis or allergic pharyngitis.

5. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

If the symptom of phlegm in the throat persists for a long time and is accompanied by signs of physical weakness or fatigue, timely consultation with a TCM specialist for syndrome differentiation and treatment is advised, such as acupuncture or moxibustion therapy.

It is important to note that observing other accompanying symptoms and combining them with one's own condition to choose the appropriate department will facilitate timely and targeted treatment. Additionally, avoiding triggers promptly is necessary to alleviate discomfort.

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