Thank you for your question. From the clinical history that you provided, I agree with the doctor whom you saw and with Dr Winston Lee that your symptoms are suggestive of acid reflux from the stomach. Specifically, since your symptoms are mostly in the throat, it is called Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR).
The most likely reason that you have a feeling of something stuck in the throat or a feeling of a “lump” in the throat (aka as globus sensation) is due to swelling of the voicebox (larynx). The voicebox is a delicate structure and can be easily inflamed (and swollen) from irritations from acid reflux from the stomach or from nose mucous flowing down your throat (aka postnasal drip from sensitive nose or sinusitis).
The small red bumps at the back of your throat may be “cobblestone throat”, again from acid reflux or postnasal drip.
The inflamed voicebox and throat can lead to persistent cough and sorethroat. Your earache may be referred pain from your throat, but it is best to have it checked by your doctor.
As the voicebox is a very sensitive organ, once inflamed, it takes weeks or evens months for the inflammation to settle. Hence during this period, it is strongly advisable for you to reduce both acid reflux and postnasal drip.
This can be done with a combination of antireflux measures, antireflux medication and medications to reduce mucous in the nose.
This would also be a good reason for you to stop smoking as cigarette smoking does cause inflammation of the throat and voicebox, reduces the self-cleansing mechanism of the nose and sinuses (predisposing you to nose and sinus infections) and is a risk factor for cancer in the head & neck region (as well as cancer in most parts of your body!)
To learn more about LPR and sensitive nose, do look at the following articles previously published on Human:
www.human.com.sg/really-causes-sore-throat-eat-much-heaty-food/
www.human.com.sg/hate-your-sensitive-nose-this-is-the-cure/
Feel free to visit an ENT Specialist for a re-evaluation as it can be frustrating dealing with a condition that is chronic. Although less likely, you might also want to rule out serious conditions like cancer in the nose & throat region (as highlighted by Dr Winston Lee). Hope this helps and all the best!
