What Causes Recurrent Painful Swallowing?

Posted on Thu, 31 Mar 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 31 Mar 2016 Answered on

Fri, 3 Jun 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello for a couple months now I have had a dull pain when I swallow that comes and goes.
It is not sharp pain and is not always there.

I do have very bad allergies

Right after I sneeze and then swallow there usually is pain. I haven't taken any medication at all.

I have no eating problems or difficulty swallowing

I am very conscience and find myself swallowing saliva a lot

Thanks

Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Gurgling with lukewarm water should provide relief.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

I have gone carefully through your query and understand your concerns. It seems that your allergies have a direct association with the presentation you mention. The pain seems to be due to spasm of the pharyngeal muscles. There are a few things to be done:
* Gurgle with lukewarm water. It would provide relief.
* Take cetirizine tablet (or any other antiallergic) once daily off and on as required.
* Avoid cold. Cold temperatures depress our immunity and trigger the allergic reactions which are likely to be related.
* Take juicy fruits like citrus fruits. They contain plenty of potassium and should help.

I would not be worried about the frequent swallowing of saliva. It is normal and happens with everybody.

Let me know if I could hep further.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar