It’s very common to have a sore throat or feel pain when swallowing, especially during a cold or after an infection. For most people, it clears up within a few days with rest and simple care.
If the discomfort keeps coming back, is particularly severe or doesn’t improve, it may be a sign that something else is going on and is worth getting checked.
Understanding the possible causes can help you know when it’s time to see an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.
Common causes of painful swallowing
There are many reasons why swallowing might feel sore or uncomfortable. Most are minor and temporary, but some may need a closer look. Here are some of the most common causes of painful swallowing.
Throat infections
Viral infections such as colds and flu are common triggers of pain when swallowing, as are bacterial infections like tonsillitis or strep throat. These typically cause redness, swelling and soreness that makes swallowing uncomfortable.
Acid reflux
Acid reflux is when stomach acid travels up the oesophagus (food pipe) and into the throat. It can cause inflammation and pain. You may also notice heartburn, hoarseness or a need to clear your throat regularly.
Post-nasal drip
Mucus from the nose or sinuses can drip down the back of the throat in a condition called post-nasal drip. This can lead to irritation and soreness – especially at night or in the morning.
Mouth ulcers
Painful ulcers inside the mouth or at the back of the throat can make swallowing food and drink difficult until they heal.
Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
In children, swollen tonsils and adenoids can block the throat, causing painful swallowing and sometimes snoring or disturbed sleep.
In many cases, these problems are short-lived and improve on their own. But if pain when swallowing keeps coming back or is making meals uncomfortable, it’s a good idea to get it checked. The right support can ease symptoms and offer reassurance.
When should you be concerned?
Occasional pain when swallowing isn’t usually a cause for concern. However, you should seek medical advice if you or your child experience:
- Pain that lasts more than a couple of weeks
- Difficulty swallowing solids or liquids
- Severe sore throat with a high fever
- A lump in the neck or throat
- Unexplained weight loss or persistent hoarseness
- Pain when swallowing that does not improve with simple care
Although these symptoms are often linked to minor issues, sometimes they can be a sign of something that needs more attention, such as ongoing infections or, more rarely, serious conditions affecting the throat.
Getting checked early not only gives you peace of mind but also means that, if there is an underlying issue, the right treatment can be started quickly.
What will an ENT specialist do?
An ENT specialist can carry out a careful assessment to find the cause of your swallowing pain. This may include a gentle examination of your throat, sometimes with a small camera called a nasendoscope.
Depending on what’s found, treatment may involve:
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Medication or lifestyle changes to manage reflux
- Speech and swallowing therapy
In some cases, your specialist might recommend further investigations, such as scans or collecting a small tissue sample, to better understand what’s going on. Surgical procedures, like removing the tonsils (tonsillectomy) are less common and only advised when other treatments haven’t worked or the problem keeps coming back.
The right treatment can relieve discomfort, restore comfort when eating and drinking, and protect your long-term throat health.
Find specialist ENT care with Mr Wale Olarinde
If pain when swallowing is affecting your daily life, don’t ignore it. Mr Wale Olarinde, an experienced ENT consultant at ENT Sheffield, offers expert assessment and tailored treatment for throat conditions. With his specialist care, you can get to the root of the problem and find lasting relief.
Book a consultation today for peace of mind and professional guidance on your symptoms.