I noticed red spots on my hard and soft palate; it gets itchy after eating spicy food. What could it be?

Question

Hello doctor,

Recently, I noticed red spots in my hard and soft palate. At times, especially after eating spicy food and in the early morning, I find the entire area itchy, and I tend to scratch it unknowingly during the night. I am concerned if it is a serious issue that needs a physical evaluation by an ENT specialist. Since childhood, I have also been asthmatic and have elevated eosinophils and IgE levels. Kindly evaluate the image I have attached, and Please help me with the cause and treatment.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for briefing the concern. I am unable to open the attached image. Could you please resend it? Once I look at it, I will be able to guide you better.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I had a detailed look at the image attached (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). There is absolutely nothing that you need to worry about. Such patches are common and are caused due to multiple factors such as chronic irritation of the area, multivitamin deficiency, etc. 1) I suggest you avoid having spicy food for the next three months to help your recovery speed. In some cases, these patches remain for longer durations (as long as a year). 2)Please try to avoid scratching that area. 3)Start using Maxtra Gargle (Benzydamine) three to four times a day before and after meals for the next two months. 4)As you mentioned that you are asthmatic and have elevated IgE levels, you should be cautious about exposure to triggering factors. If you have a nasal allergy, it has to be treated appropriately, as it could be one of the factors causing this problem.

Answer 3

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

1) I had a look at the image you have attached. You do not have to worry about these white dot-like structures over the black-brown pigmentation on the palate as long as the pigmentation does not increase or create any symptoms. However, if you see an increase in pigmentation or discoloration over the area, it is better to go for a biopsy of the region. 2)Yes, you can continue using the same gargle for a month. Revert for further queries.