A sore throat that hurts with swallowing is usually caused by an infection or irritation in the throat. Viral colds and flu are most common, while strep throat is a bacterial cause that tends to bring more intense pain and fever. Symptoms improve as the inflammation settles and the throat lining heals.
Other problems can also make swallowing painful. Mononucleosis can cause marked throat pain with swollen neck glands and white patches in the throat. Acid reflux that rises to the throat (often called “silent reflux”) can irritate the voice box and back of the throat, especially after meals or at night.
Mild throat pain often gets better in a few days with simple home measures. Drinking plenty of warm fluids, resting the voice, and using lozenges or warm salt-water gargles can help soothe irritation. Keeping the air moist with a humidifier and avoiding cigarette smoke or alcohol also reduces discomfort. Check-out other home remedies for a sore throat that you can prepare to relieve discomfort naturally.
It’s best to see a doctor if throat pain lasts more than a week, is severe, or presents with fever, swollen lymph nodes, or white spots in the throat. It is very important to seek urgent medical attention if there’s drooling, trouble breathing, or pain on only one side of the throat, as these can signal a serious infection. Persistent or recurring symptoms should be assessed by a family doctor or an ENT specialist.