Odynophagia

What is Odynophagia?

Odynophagia is the medical term for pain or discomfort when swallowing. It can occur while eating food, drinking liquids, or even swallowing saliva. The sensation may be sharp, burning, or tight in the throat or chest. If left untreated, odynophagia can interfere with your nutrition and overall well-being.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of odynophagia can range from mild to severe. Common signs include:

• Pain or burning sensation during swallowing
• Tightness or discomfort in the throat or chest
• Difficulty eating or drinking
• Pain that worsens with hot, cold, or acidic foods
• Chest pain resembling heartburn
• In children, refusal to eat or excessive drooling

Causes

Odynophagia usually arises from irritation or injury to the esophageal lining. Common causes include:

• Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Infections, such as Candida (yeast) or herpes simplex virus
• Medication reactions (for example, NSAIDs or certain antibiotics)
• Eosinophilic esophagitis (allergic inflammation of the esophagus)
• Physical trauma from swallowing pills or foreign objects
• Previous radiation therapy to the chest or throat

Treatment Options for Odynophagia in Houston

Treatment includes diagnostics, medication, diet modifications, and procedures:

• Diagnostic tests: Endoscopy, imaging (barium swallow, CT scan), or laboratory work to identify the underlying cause.
• Medications: Acid reducers (proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers), antifungals, antivirals, or corticosteroids to treat infection and inflammation.
• Diet plan: Avoid hot, cold, spicy, or acidic foods and beverages that worsen throat or chest pain.
• Soft food guidelines: Incorporate mashed, pureed, and tender foods to give your esophagus time to heal.
• Procedures: Esophageal dilation to stretch narrowed areas or endoscopic therapies for strictures and injuries.
• Follow-up care: Regular monitoring, lifestyle counseling, and adjustment of treatments to prevent recurrence and manage chronic conditions.