Why Does My Esophagus Hurt When Swallowing Food?

Pain in the esophagus during swallowing may indicate a problem with the esophagus. If esophagitis occurs or something grows inside the esophagus, causing narrowing of the esophagus, pain and discomfort may arise in the esophagus during swallowing. Acute inflammatory infections in the throat, such as acute tonsillitis, can also easily lead to esophageal pain during swallowing. Additionally, if a foreign object is lodged in the esophagus or throat, it can also cause esophageal pain during swallowing.

1. Esophageal issues: Some patients may have conditions such as reflux esophagitis, suppurative esophagitis, or growths inside the esophagus, leading to esophageal narrowing. When swallowing, this can cause local discomfort and pain in the esophagus. It is recommended to visit a gastroenterology department for electronic gastroscopy, upper gastrointestinal barium meal, and other related examinations for a definitive diagnosis.

2. Acute inflammatory infections in the throat: Conditions such as acute tonsillitis, acute pharyngitis, acute epiglottitis, and inflammatory lesions of the piriform sinus and laryngeal cleft can be related. When swallowing, throat pain may radiate to the entrance of the esophagus, causing esophageal pain.

3. Recently, patients may have swallowed a foreign object lodged in the esophagus or lower throat, causing local pain during swallowing. In these last two cases, it is recommended to visit an ENT department for electronic laryngoscopy for a definitive diagnosis.