Sore throat, difficulty swallowing, pain even when swallowing saliva—what medication should be taken?
Nov 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Sore throat with swelling, difficulty swallowing, and pain even when swallowing saliva may be caused by excessive voice use, dietary irritation, acute pharyngitis, acute tonsillitis, or herpangina. Symptoms can be improved through vocal rest, dietary adjustments, and medication. However, if the pain is severe or accompanied by fever, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms, prompt medical attention is necessary.
Swollen and painful throat, difficulty swallowing, and even pain when swallowing saliva may be caused by excessive voice use, dietary irritation, acute pharyngitis, acute tonsillitis, or herpangina. Symptoms can be improved through vocal rest, dietary adjustments, and medication. If the pain is severe or accompanied by fever or breathing difficulties, prompt medical attention is necessary.
1. Excessive voice use: Prolonged loud talking, crying, or singing can lead to congestion and swelling of the throat's mucous membrane, causing pain and swelling. Swallowing further irritates the damaged tissue, intensifying discomfort. It is recommended to minimize voice use to allow the throat to rest, drink plenty of warm water to keep the throat moist, and avoid shouting.
2. Dietary irritation: Consuming large amounts of spicy or excessively hot food in a short time can irritate the throat's mucous membrane, triggering an inflammatory response that results in swelling, pain, and difficulty swallowing. A light diet with porridge or soft foods is advised. Avoid spicy and hot foods, and increase intake of fresh vegetables and fruits.
3. Acute pharyngitis: Viral or bacterial infection causes acute inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa, leading to redness, swelling, severe sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. Symptoms may include hoarseness and dry throat. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may use medications such as Pudilan Anti-inflammatory Oral Liquid, Cefaclor for Oral Suspension, or Kaihoujian Spray to relieve symptoms.
4. Acute tonsillitis: Infection causes the tonsils to become red, swollen, and pus-filled, resulting in significant throat pain. Swallowing aggravates the pain as food irritates the inflamed tonsils. Fever and a sensation of a foreign body in the throat may also occur. Under medical supervision, medications such as Amoxicillin Clavulanate Potassium Granules, Ibuprofen Suspension, and Compound Chlorhexidine Gargle Solution may be used to alleviate discomfort.
5. Herpangina: Caused by enterovirus infection, this condition leads to blisters and ulcers in the pharynx, resulting in severe throat pain. Swallowing irritates the ulcerated areas, worsening discomfort. Symptoms often include fever and oral blisters. Patients may follow medical advice to use Ribavirin Granules, Paracetamol Suspension Drops, and Kangfuxin Liquid to improve symptoms.
To support recovery, keep the throat moist by drinking warm water regularly, choose mild and easily digestible foods, avoid tobacco, alcohol, and irritating spicy foods, maintain regular sleep patterns with adequate rest, practice good oral hygiene, and rinse the mouth after meals to reduce throat irritation.
