Difficulty swallowing: possible causes and treatment

Difficulty swallowing can have many different causes. Treatment makes sense in any case, because the complaints usually do not go away on their own, or may also indicate a bacterial or viral infection.

Difficulty swallowing - the cause is often bacteria

Bacteria are everywhere in the air. Especially when it gets colder, from October or November, the first cold symptoms appear. Swallowing difficulties are among the most mentioned here. Often there is a sore throat and runny nose. The difficulty swallowing manifests itself in that the throat swells, feels dry and you feel pain when eating or drinking.

• Good hygiene is now very important. Wash your hands several times a day. Because there are often a lot of bacteria on door handles, money and shopping carts, which give you much less chance of reaching you by washing your hands regularly.
• Even in public transport, when many people come together in a small space, the risk of infection is relatively high. Here too, always wash your hands as often as possible.
• Alternatively, you can get hand disinfectants, these are available in small bottles and can be stored in every small handbag.
• If a real cold wave is going on, it makes sense to “arm” yourself with a mouthguard. This can help not to become infected, especially in susceptible people whose immune systems are weakened. Seniors and young children are particularly affected.
• If an infection has occurred, it can be treated with antibiotics. The doctor will prescribe a suitable medication for you.

Painful swallowing - more persistent causes

There are also swallowing difficulties that are due to an illness or a bad indoor climate. Because irritation of the mucous membranes due to medication or too dry air can lead to a dry throat and difficulty swallowing. This should be clarified with a visit to the doctor. Swallowing problems caused by viruses should also be treated differently. Because viruses are often more persistent and difficult to treat. In this case, the body has to help itself more or less. The following things can help.

• Herbal candies with essential oils can help with swallowing difficulties.
• Regular pain relievers are helpful to make the swallowing difficulties more bearable. They also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
• Warming teas, such as a "hot lemon" or fresh ginger tea, can also help to moisturize the throat and relieve swallowing problems.
• It is also helpful to gargle with an antibacterial agent. This frees the pharynx from additional stressful bacteria.
• Also keep yourself warm. You can do this with warm clothing and a scarf. Make sure you keep your feet warm too. Thick socks and hot water bottles or electric blankets are well suited for this.
• Treat yourself to a cold bath. Various additives for the water can have a relaxing effect. The rising water vapor further alleviates the difficulty in swallowing.
• Generally, especially in winter, strengthen your immune system to be less prone to colds.

In our next practical tip, you will learn more about helpful teas for a cold.