Swallowing pain or burning

Alternative names:

burning feeling when swallowing; odynophagia; pain or burning when swallowing

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 health care provider if:

• there is persistent pain or burning when swallowing.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

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.