Sore throat, even painful when swallowing saliva—how to relieve it?

Throat pain that hurts even when swallowing saliva may be caused by excessive voice use, spicy foods, acute pharyngitis, acute tonsillitis, or suppurative tonsillitis. Symptoms can be improved through vocal rest, dietary adjustments, and medication. If the pain lasts more than three days, worsens, or is accompanied by fever or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention promptly.

1. Excessive voice use: Prolonged talking or shouting can cause congestion and swelling of the throat mucosa, leading to painful swallowing and hoarseness. It is recommended to reduce speaking to allow the vocal cords to rest, drink plenty of warm water to soothe the throat, and avoid loud shouting.

2. Spicy food irritation: Consuming excessive spicy foods such as chili peppers or Sichuan pepper can irritate the throat mucosa, causing inflammation and pain that worsens during swallowing. A light diet rich in fruits and vegetables is advised. Avoid spicy or hot-temperature foods and drink plenty of water to soothe the mucous membranes.

3. Acute pharyngitis: Viral or bacterial infection causes acute inflammation of the throat mucosa. Mucosal swelling and redness result in severe pain when swallowing, often accompanied by a dry throat and cough. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may take medications such as Pudilan Anti-inflammatory Oral Liquid, Amoxicillin Capsules, or Xigua Shuang Throat Lozenges to relieve symptoms.

4. Acute tonsillitis: Infection leads to acute inflammation of the tonsils, causing swollen tonsils and intense throat pain that worsens during swallowing, possibly accompanied by fever. Under medical guidance, medications such as Cefixime Dispersible Tablets, Ibuprofen Sustained-Release Capsules, or Compound Chlorhexidine Gargle Solution may be used to alleviate discomfort.

5. Suppurative tonsillitis: A pus-forming infection of the tonsils causes severe throat pain that intensifies with swallowing, accompanied by high fever and visible pus on the tonsil surfaces. As directed by a physician, medications such as Phenoxymethylpenicillin Potassium Tablets, Paracetamol Suspension, or Kaihoujian Spray may be used to improve symptoms.

Maintain throat moisture by drinking warm water regularly. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and exposure to dust. Maintain regular sleep patterns and adequate rest. Eat liquid or semi-liquid foods to reduce friction during swallowing, and stay warm to prevent colds, supporting faster recovery of the throat.