Why does my throat develop pharyngitis every time I eat fish, and what should I do about it?

Generally, developing pharyngitis after eating fish may be caused by factors such as the cooking method of the fish causing irritation, fish bones scratching the throat mucosa, fish allergy, acute exacerbation of chronic pharyngitis, or worsening gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, and other approaches. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Irritation from fish cooking methods: Frequently consuming spicy, fried, or overly hot fish can lead to direct thermal and chemical irritation of the throat mucosa due to high temperatures and pungent seasonings, triggering inflammation. Opt for milder cooking methods such as steaming or boiling, allow cooked fish to cool before eating, and rinse the mouth with warm water after meals to remove residual irritants.

2. Fish bone injury to the throat mucosa: Not chewing slowly while eating fish increases the risk of small bones scratching the mucosal lining, creating wounds susceptible to bacterial infection and subsequent pharyngitis. Eat fish slowly and attentively. If a fish bone is felt, drinking a small amount of vinegar may help soften it. After an injury, avoid hard foods and rinse the mouth with normal saline to prevent infection.

3. Fish allergy: An allergic reaction to foreign proteins in fish activates the immune system, leading to congestion and swelling of the throat mucosa, manifesting as throat itching and pain. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride drops, or montelukast sodium chewable tablets. Once the allergen is confirmed, all types of fish and fish products should be avoided.

4. Acute flare-up of chronic pharyngitis: Individuals with pre-existing chronic pharyngitis may experience acute episodes triggered by the fishy odor or oily texture of fish, which irritate sensitive mucosa, resulting in symptoms like dryness and a sensation of a foreign body in the throat. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as Lan Qin oral liquid, Pudi Lan anti-inflammatory tablets, or watermelon frost lozenges. When eating fish, choose varieties with fewer bones and tender meat.

5. Worsening gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Greasy fish can stimulate increased gastric acid secretion, which may reflux into the throat and damage the mucosa, causing pharyngitis along with symptoms like acid regurgitation and heartburn. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, domperidone tablets, or hydrotalcite chewable tablets to alleviate symptoms.

Maintain a light diet in daily life and consume more fresh fruits and vegetables to supplement vitamins. Carefully remove fish bones before eating and chew food thoroughly. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing teeth morning and night to reduce bacterial growth in the throat area, aiding recovery from pharyngitis.