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who does it hurt to swallow ?

**Who Does It Hurt to Swallow?**

Swallowing pain can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. It’s common to associate painful swallowing with serious conditions such as throat or esophageal cancer, but there are many other possible causes that may not be life-threatening.

In this article, we’ll explore the various causes of painful swallowing, from viral infections to throat injuries, and provide tips on how to alleviate the discomfort.

**Viral Infections**

Viral infections such as the common cold, flu, and infections like laryngitis, tonsillitis, and strep throat are common causes of painful swallowing. These infections can lead to a sore throat, fever, and cough. To avoid spreading the infection, it’s essential to keep away from others and practice good hygiene.

**Throat Infections**

Infections like strep throat, epiglottitis, and esophagitis can also cause painful swallowing. Throat infections are often accompanied by symptoms like a runny nose, cough, and fever.

**Other Possible Causes**

Besides viral and throat infections, other possible causes of painful swallowing include:

* Stomach acid reflux
* Tonsillitis
* Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
* A throat injury
* An ear infection
* Problems with the vocal cords
* Insertion of a breathing tube or oral/oral surgery

**5 Reasons You Might Experience Pain When Swallowing**

Colgate provides five possible underlying causes of throat pain when swallowing:

1. Cold Virus
2. Acid reflux
3. Tonsillitis
4. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
5. A throat injury

**7 Reasons Why Your Throat Hurts When You Swallow**

The Family Diagnostic Clinic identifies seven possible reasons for a sore throat:

1. Viral or sinus infection
2. Sinus drip
3. Swollen tonsils
4. Coughing
5. Cold or flu viruses
6. Allergies
7. TMJ disorders

**Dysphagia (Swallowing Problems)**

NHS explains that dysphagia, or swallowing problems, can manifest in different ways, including:

* Coughing or choking when eating or drinking
* Bringing food back up, sometimes through the nose
* A sensation that food is stuck in the throat or chest
* Persistent drooling of saliva

**What Does It Mean When I Wake Up and It Hurts to Swallow?**

Sometimes, a sore throat can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. However, in many cases, a sore throat in the morning can be alleviated by drinking hot coffee or tea, taking a hot shower, or using a humidifier.

To alleviate painful swallowing, try these tips:

* Drink plenty of fluids, especially warm ones like tea or broth
* Take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
* Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air
* Avoid irritants like smoke and chemicals
* Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly
* Avoid talking or shouting excessively

Remember, if your pain persists or worsens, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions that may require medical attention.

Watch our accompanying video for more information on painful swallowing:

[YOUTUBE VIDEO: “Why Does It Hurt to Swallow?”]

By understanding the causes of painful swallowing, you can take steps to alleviate the discomfort and address any underlying conditions. If you’re experiencing persistent pain or difficulty swallowing, consult your healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.

**Sources**

1. WebMD – “Painful Swallowing: 10 Causes of Pain When Swallowing”
2. The Sun – “Why does it hurt to swallow? Tips to get rid of a sore throat”
3. Medical News Today – “Why does it hurt when I swallow?”
4. Colgate – “5 Reasons You Might Experience Pain When Swallowing”
5. Healthline – “Painful Swallowing: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis”
6. Quora – “Why does it hurt to swallow?”
7. Family Diagnostic Clinic – “7 Reasons Why Your Throat Hurts When You Swallow”
8. NHS – “Dysphagia (swallowing problems)”
9. Quora – “What does it mean when I wake up and it hurts to swallow?”