What causes unbearable sore throat to the point of being unable to swallow even saliva, and what should be done about it?

Generally, when throat pain is so severe that even swallowing saliva becomes difficult, it may be caused by conditions such as acute pharyngitis, suppurative tonsillitis, or acute epiglottitis. Treatment should be symptom-based and tailored to the specific condition. Details are as follows:

1. Acute Pharyngitis

Acute pharyngitis is a common acute upper respiratory tract infection, clinically characterized by throat discomfort, burning sensation, and pain. Patients are advised to take medications such as cydiodine buccal tablets or penicillin V potassium tablets as directed by a physician.

2. Suppurative Tonsillitis

Suppurative tonsillitis is an acute purulent inflammation of the tonsils caused by bacterial infection, which may present with symptoms including sore throat, chills, high fever, and headache. Patients are advised to use medications such as compound borax mouthwash and cefaclor dispersible tablets as prescribed.

3. Acute Epiglottitis

Acute epiglottitis is a common acute infectious disease in otolaryngology, primarily characterized by epiglottic congestion and swelling, severe throat pain, difficulty swallowing, and breathing difficulties. Patients are advised to take medications such as moxifloxacin hydrochloride tablets or cefixime capsules as directed by their doctor.

In addition, other conditions such as the common cold, tonsillar hypertrophy, or parapharyngeal abscess may also cause similar symptoms. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical attention upon experiencing discomfort to avoid delays in treatment. Additionally, maintaining a light diet and getting adequate rest are important in daily life.