Swallowing Difficulty

Pain with swallowing can come from a problem that is not dangerous, such as acid reflux (also called gastroesophageal reflux, or GERD) or a viral infection.

It can also come from a serious problem such as a bacterial infection (including strep throat), a yeast infection of the throat or, rarely, a cancer.

If your symptoms persist more than one week, call your doctor's office for advice.

If you have a fever, if you have lost weight, or if you have a weak immune system (from HIV or another reason), call your doctor's office -- don't wait. Call now for advice and to arrange an appointment.