Swallowing pain or burning

• irritation of the mucous membranes including chemical irritation
• a muscle problem of the esophagus ( reflux esophagitis )
• a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection ( esophagitis candida for example)
• a tumor
• foreign body (such as fish or poultry bones)
• esophageal spasm

Note: There may be other causes of swallowing pain. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for swallowing pain, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.

Home Care:
Eat slowly and chew food thoroughly.

If a person suddenly complains of choking and displays signs of respiratory distress, the Heimlich maneuver should be performed immediately.

Call Your Healthcare Provider If:

• there is persistent pain or burning when swallowing.

What to Expect:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting painful swallowing in detail may include:

• time pattern
  • When did this develop?
  • Has it been present since childhood?
  • Did it occur suddenly?
  • Is it there all the time (constant) or off and on (intermittent)?

• aggravating factors
  • Has there been a possibility that a substance was inhaled or swallowed that might have irritated the esophagus?
  • Is there a fever , sore throat , or other sign of infection?
  • Does it feel like there is a lump in the throat?

• other
  • What other symptoms are also present?
  • Is there difficulty swallowing ?
  • Is there difficulty breathing ?

The physical examination may include an examination of the upper respiratory and digestive tracts.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

• throat culture
• blood counts ( CBC and platelet count )
• X-rays of the neck
• barium swallow
• endoscopy ( EGD ) with biopsy
• esophageal manometry

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider related to painful swallowing, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.


A cross-section illustration of the mouth, nasal cavity, and throat. The nasal passages are also visible.