It Hurts to Swallow
When it hurts to swallow, there is a high chance that the person may be suffering from a sore throat. In most cases, the common cause for pain and difficulty while swallowing food and liquid is due to sore throat. Sore throat is a common symptom of diseases ranging from common cold to an acute tonsillitis.
A sore throat is a common ailment and is a symptom of a lot of health problems including:
- Colds
- Flu
- Tonsillitis
- Strep throat
- Laryngitis
- Throat dryness
- Sinus drainage
- Bacteria
- Common Viruses
Environmental pollution, cigarette smoking, speaking loudly or yelling, allergies to food, dry air are some of the causes of sore throat.
It hurts to Swallow and Yawn
When people feel pain while swallowing and yawning, it’s important to get proper rest as well as determine the root cause of the problem. Often, the cause of this condition is colds. Sometimes, allergies may also cause this. When it hurts to swallow and talk, laryngitis might be the problem especially when it is accompanied with hoarseness of the voice.
It Hurts to Swallow, What Should I Do?
When the patient with throat pain does not have any other symptoms that may indicate allergies, colds, sinusitis or laryngitis. It is best to let the person take rest to get relief from pain. Here are some home remedies and tips to treat a painful throat:
- Drink plenty of water, especially when you are suffering from an infection such as common cold and tonsillitis.
- Gargle with warm water mixed with salt. The salt should be just enough to relieve the pain. Too much salt may end up worsening the condition.
- Hard candies are also recommended to provide temporary relief from the pain. Avoid using lozenges and hard candies for children as these are choking hazards.
- A humidifier may help relieve symptoms, especially when the pain is caused by dry air and breathing through the mouth.
- In case the cause is streptococcal infection, immediate medical intervention is necessary. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medicines. Complete the course of the prescribed medication.
- Use apple cider vinegar for gargling. Apple cider vinegar is beneficial in treating bacterial sore throat due to it’s natural bactericidal activity.
- Eat fruits and vegetables containing Vitamin C. Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and helps the body combat against bacteria and virus.
I am having a horrible sore throat. There is no cough, chest pain or loss of voice. But together with sore throat my sinuses are blocked. My ears feel pooped when going down or coming up from the elevator.