Hot food or beverages can burn the throat. The delicate lining is sensitive to high temperatures and susceptible to thermal injury. While often minor, these injuries can cause discomfort and irritation.
Recognizing a Thermal Injury
A burning sensation or discomfort often indicates a thermal injury in the mouth or throat. This can manifest as pain, rawness, or sensitivity in the affected area. The soft tissues of the mouth and throat are more delicate than external skin, making them prone to injury from hot substances.
Visible signs of a burn include redness and swelling of the affected tissues. Blistering, though less common in the throat, might occur in the mouth. Individuals might also experience difficulty swallowing or a sensation that something is stuck in the throat. The intensity of these symptoms can vary depending on the temperature of the food and the duration of contact.
Understanding the Severity of a Burn
Thermal injuries from hot food are classified by their depth, similar to burns on the skin. A first-degree burn affects only the outermost layer of tissue, causing redness, mild swelling, and pain.
Most burns from hot food or drinks are first-degree, involving superficial damage. Discomfort usually subsides quickly, and the tissue heals without scarring. While generally minor, these burns can still be quite painful.
Second-degree burns are more serious, affecting deeper layers of tissue. These burns are characterized by blistering, more intense pain, and a shiny or moist appearance. If a burn results in blistering in the mouth or throat, it indicates a second-degree injury and warrants closer attention.
Third-degree burns are extremely rare from food or beverages, involving damage to all layers of tissue, including nerves. These burns may cause the skin to appear dry, leathery, or charred, and due to nerve damage, there might be less pain initially. Severe thermal injury to the larynx and pharynx from hot food, though uncommon in adults, can lead to complications if not properly managed.
Immediate Care and Healing
After a thermal injury from hot food, cooling the affected area is beneficial. Sipping cool water, sucking on ice chips, or consuming cold dairy products like milk or yogurt can soothe the burn and provide a protective coating. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort.
During the healing process, avoid foods and beverages that could further irritate sensitive tissues. This includes very hot, spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods. Opt for soft, bland, and cool foods to minimize irritation and promote healing.
Minor burns typically heal within a few days, with symptoms gradually improving. However, seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, if severe pain does not subside, or if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent swallowing issues, or signs of infection such as pus or increasing swelling. In rare instances, severe thermal burns can lead to airway obstruction due to swelling, requiring immediate medical evaluation.
Preventing Future Incidents
To avoid future thermal injuries from hot food or drinks, exercising caution with temperature is important. Always test the temperature of food and beverages before consuming, especially items heated in a microwave, which can have uneven hot spots. A small sip or bite can help assess the temperature safely.
Stirring hot liquids, such as soup or coffee, helps distribute heat evenly and allows them to cool more quickly. Allow very hot dishes to cool for a few minutes before eating. Being mindful of the temperature can significantly reduce the risk of accidentally burning your mouth or throat.