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Uvula tear

12/28/2009

Question:

About a year ago, I noticed something dangling off of my Uvula in the back of my throat. More or less hanging next to it. Best described…if the Uvula was a punching bag, it would be as if a smaller punching bag was hung slightly higher, but hanging right next to it, and more or less leaning on it. It doesn`t hurt, but it clearly dangles a bit and I can move it with my tongue.

Was my Uvula somehow “sliced” or torn? I actually have grabbed it with a tweezer and can pull on it. It seems to be a little longer than my Uvula, as it seems to have been “split off” higher than from where my Uvula dangles from. Visually, it looks like a thin string with a smaller than a pea hanging from it.

I wish I could post a picture but I wonder how it affects my snoring, and if there is something I can do to have it removed. I must say, I`m tempted to cut it, but know that could be a really bad idea with stopping the blood, and infection of course.

Answer:

This structure hanging from your uvula is very likely a small growth called a papilloma, which is like a wart. It can easily be removed with local anesthetic in a doctor’s office.  I suggest you consult an ear, nose, and throat physician who will be able to diagnose what it is, and the best avenue of treatment if any.

For more information:

Go to the Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders health topic.