why does my throat hurt when i swallow

The pain experienced when swallowing, medically called odynophagia, can arise from various causes. Common reasons include infections like strep throat or tonsillitis, which cause inflammation and swelling in the throat. Viral infections such as the common cold or flu can also inflame the throat, leading to pain during swallowing. Additionally, conditions like acid reflux can irritate the throat, causing discomfort when swallowing. Other potential causes include throat injuries, fungal infections like oral thrush, sinus infections, or even more serious conditions like epiglottitis or esophageal issues. If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, or difficulty breathing, medical evaluation is recommended to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment.