Why does it hurt when you swallow?

There are several possible reasons why you might experience pain when swallowing. Here are a few common causes:

Sore throat: A sore throat, also known as pharyngitis, is a common condition that can cause pain when swallowing. It is often caused by a viral or bacterial infection, and can be accompanied by symptoms such as scratchiness, hoarseness, or difficulty speaking.

Tonsillitis: Tonsillitis is an infection or inflammation of the tonsils, which are two small glands located at the back of the throat. Swollen tonsils can block the airway, making it difficult to swallow and causing pain.

Strep throat: Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. It causes inflammation of the throat and can lead to severe pain when swallowing, along with other symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle aches.

Acid reflux: Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. This can cause a burning sensation in the chest, pain when swallowing, and other symptoms such as nausea and bloating.

Other conditions: In some cases, pain when swallowing can be a symptom of a more serious underlying medical condition, such as esophageal cancer, thyroid problems, or a foreign object lodged in the throat.

If you are experiencing pain when swallowing, it is important to see a doctor for evaluation to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. The doctor may recommend medications, lifestyle changes, or further tests to identify the underlying cause.