What are the differences between a cold, strep throat and tonsillitis in terms of a sore throat?

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).

From the clinical history and the picture provided, you may have a cobblestone throat. However, it is best to see an ENT Specialist to have a full examination of your throat and head & neck region to rule out any worrisome lumps. A picture alone (especially in the throat region which is more difficult to visualize) may not be enough to clinch a diagnosis. Cobblestone throat are bumps at the back of your throat that formed after chronic irritation from postnasal drip. They are a result of enlarged lymphoid tissues in the throat.