Published on: 7/9/2025
What should I do if my throat is swollen and it's hard to swallow?
If your throat is swollen and it's hard to swallow, it could be due to various reasons, such as allergies or irritation from medication. It's important to seek medical attention to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment.
Explanation
Having a swollen throat that makes it hard to swallow can be concerning. There are different reasons why this might happen.
Allergies: Some people experience throat tightness due to allergies. This can happen intermittently and may need medical evaluation to identify the cause and treatment options.
Injury: Sometimes, even a strong cough can lead to injuries like a laryngeal fracture, which could cause swelling and difficulty swallowing. This condition needs to be checked by a doctor to ensure proper care.
Medication Irritation: Certain medications, like doxycycline, can cause irritation in the esophagus, leading to swallowing difficulties. This is known as pill esophagitis and requires medical advice on how to manage the symptoms and possibly adjust medication.
It's best to see a healthcare provider to determine the exact cause and receive the right treatment. They can help you understand what's happening and how to feel better.
(References)
- Douglas DM, & Brown JS. (1993). Intermittent throat tightness in a 37-year-old woman. Annals of allergy, 8346859.
- Fenig M, Strasberg S, Cohen JC, Almadi R, & Gold M. (2013). Laryngeal fracture after coughing. The American journal of emergency medicine, 23806730.
- Kadayifci A, Gulsen MT, Koruk M, & Savas MC. (2004). Doxycycline-induced pill esophagitis. Diseases of the esophagus : official journal of the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus, 15230733.
Tell your friends about us.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Learn more about symptoms
Was this page helpful?
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.