Many of us have experienced the discomfort of painful swallowing at some point. During our childhood, our mothers often blamed it on something going down the “wrong pipe,” and we accepted that answer. Now that we’re all grown up, we tend to want a more accurate explanation as to why this takes place. Does it happen once and then resolve, or does it persist? Let’s have a closer look at potential causes of painful swallowing and determine when it’s time to come in and see us for a consultation.
What causes painful swallowing?
Pain during swallowing can appear in various areas, that includes the mouth, throat, esophagus, or the center of your chest. Odynophagia is the term for this condition, and while it typically has a temporary nature, it can serve as a symptom of numerous medical conditions.
Let’s take a look at some common causes of painful swallowing.
Tonsillitis
Tonsils are two little masses of tissue at the back of your throat and when they get ill it’s known as tonsillitis. Normally triggered by viral or bacterial infections, it produces symptoms like a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen tonsils, and occasional fever.
Treatment normally consists of rest and hydration, and antibiotics may be suggested for bacterial infections. The tonsils may need to be removed with a surgery called a tonsillectomy if the condition is severe and persistent enough.
Strep Throat
Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that is normally responsible for strep throat. Inflamed lymph nodes, scratchy throat, and difficulty swallowing are all typical symptoms. Strep throat is transmitted from person-to-person via respiratory droplets and is quite contagious.
Treating strep throat rapidly with medical attention, which will typically involve antibiotics, is the only way to be certain to avoid further complications.
Esophagitis
When the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach, called the esophagus, becomes swollen, it’s called esophagitis. It is typically due to factors like acid reflux, infections, or certain medications, resulting in symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and heartburn.
Treatment for esophagitis involves addressing the underlying cause. The exact course of treatment may include medication, lifestyle adjustments, or in extreme cases surgery.
Mono
Mononucleosis, or “mono,” is an infectious disease primarily brought about by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Common symptoms include extreme exhaustion, a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. Mono is usually transmitted by saliva, that’s why it’s commonly called “the kissing disease”.
Although most cases of mono usually clear up with rest and supportive care, but potential for a severe complication is possible though, and people are warned to steer clear of activities that might spread the virus during the active period of the infection.
There are lots of other causes of painful swallowing, so it’s important to see a physician for a diagnosis.
When should you visits an ENT for painful swallowing?
Schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible if you have painful swallowing along with any of the following symptoms:
- Presence of blood in bowel movements or saliva
- Experiencing shortness of breath or lightheadedness
- Symptoms persisting beyond one week
- Hoarse voice
- Noticing lumps in the neck
- Unexplained weight loss
If you’re worried about persistent throat pain, call us for a consultation.