Odynophagia is a painful condition when swallowing, often caused by mucosal destruction or muscle disorders. Treatment involves addressing the underlying cause and relieving symptoms with medication. Early detection is important for effective treatment.
Odynophagia is a condition in which an individual feels pain whenever they swallow. Unlike dysphagia, which is a condition in which an individual has difficulty swallowing, odynophagia does not necessarily involve any problems with the swallowing process itself. For many people, the level of pain is similar when attempting a swallowing activity, whether the attempt involves a cold drink or hot food.
The causes of odynophagia usually have to do with some type of mucosal destruction or at least some type of mucosal irritation from habitual consumption of extremely hot or cold foods and drinks. Muscle disorders that negatively affect the function of the muscles in the throat may also be a contributing factor to the development of this condition. In some cases, causes of odynophagia include developing cancer in the esophagus, certain types of immune disorders, or infections that develop in the upper respiratory tract.
For most people, the condition takes the form of an extremely uncomfortable burning sensation every time you try to swallow. Along with the burning sensation, many patients also report a feeling of squeezing around the throat as they attempt to swallow. This discomfort occurs when eating or drinking, but can also occur when swallowing simply to clear the throat.
The most effective treatment is usually a two-pronged approach, involving treating both the underlying cause and the symptoms that occur at the same time. For example, because medications are used to keep the respiratory infection under control, oral medications may be employed to help numb the throat and relieve pain when swallowing. As the infection weakens, the pain when swallowing also begins to lessen.
In situations where acute odynophagia is caused by the presence of cancer, the treatment process is likely to be extended. Depending on the location and severity of the cancer, radiation and chemotherapy may be used to shrink the tumor and prevent the cancer cells from spreading. If needed, you may need surgery to remove the tumor. Once the cancer is under control, the patient is likely to find that swallowing becomes less painful over time.
Because there are so many reasons this condition can develop, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as the condition starts to show itself. Early detection of the underlying cause can speed recovery and possibly prevent other health complications if the underlying cause is particularly serious. Since many of the reasons for this condition can be treated with oral prescribed medications, relief from odynophagia can be achieved within a week.
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