What Makes Swallowing Feel Less Painful?
“Odynophagia” is the medical term forpain or discomfort while swallowing.
Odynophagia can be a serious symptom because it may be a sign of a severe medical problem.
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It should not be confused with dysphagia, a condition that involves trouble with the act of swallowing.
While the two issues can occur at the same time, they are distinct problems.
Painful swallowing can occur for many reasons.
Common causes includeinfection,inflammation, and problems with the structure of the esophagus and/orthroat.
Treatment varies based on the cause of the problem.
This article describes odynophagia’s causes, symptoms, and diagnosis.
It also explains treatments and common complications of the problem.
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What Leads to Odynophagia?
Odynophagia Feeling in Throat
The feeling of odynophagia can vary by individual and cause.
Generally, the condition causes a feeling in the throat described as pain during swallowing.
These changes interfere with the normal swallowing function.
However, a healthcare provider should examine a sore throat with painful swallowing that lasts longer.
Painful swallowing can be a symptom of a serious condition, so it should not be ignored.
Esophageal manometry: This test uses a small, flexible catheter to measure the function of your esophagus.
The catheter is inserted through your nasal passage into your esophagus and passed into your stomach.
Pressure sensors measure the pressure of the upper and lower esophageal valves and contractions as you swallow.
HIV test: This test is used to determine whether you have acquired HIV.
It can be performed using a sample of blood, saliva, or urine.
Rapid tests, such as for strep, can provide quick results.
Odynophagia Treatment
Odynophagia treatment varies based on the underlying cause.
In cases of chronic diseases like GERD or cancer, the disease may worsen when treatment is delayed.
It can occur in any area from your neck to your breastbone.
Lozenges, numbing sprays, NSAIDs, and other over-the-counter pain medication can relieve symptoms of painful swallowing.
However, treating the underlying cause of painful swallowing is the only way to achieve long-term relief.
Finding the cause of odynophagia can help you get the treatment you need.
2023;40(Suppl):S129-S133.
doi:10.12701/jyms.2023.00843
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