The soft palate, the fleshy part at the back of the mouth, helps close off nasal passages during swallowing. Pain in this area is often a symptom of common, non-serious conditions.
Common Causes of Discomfort
Pain in the soft palate when swallowing can stem from various sources, ranging from infections to physical irritation. Common infections include viral illnesses like the common cold, flu, or mononucleosis. Bacterial infections, like strep throat, also cause pain, sometimes with fever and swollen lymph nodes. Oral thrush, a fungal infection, may appear as white patches on the palate, causing soreness and difficulty swallowing.
Inflammation and irritation also contribute. Allergies, particularly post-nasal drip, can irritate the throat and soft palate. Dry mouth, from dehydration or mouth breathing, causes soreness. Snoring or smoking can cause chronic irritation. Very hot foods or drinks can burn the soft palate, sometimes called “pizza palate.”
Acid reflux (GERD) is another cause. When stomach acid flows back into the throat, it can irritate and inflame the soft palate, causing a burning sensation and soreness. This irritation may also cause a persistent sore throat or a feeling of a lump.
Minor trauma or injury can also cause pain when swallowing. This can occur from scratching the area with hard foods, during dental work, or from vigorous coughing or vomiting. Injuries can cause inflammation, tenderness, or small cuts.
Self-Care and Relief Measures
For mild soft palate pain, several self-care measures can help. Staying hydrated keeps mucous membranes moist, reducing irritation. Warm liquids like tea with honey can also provide soothing relief.
Gargling with warm salt water can soothe the area by reducing swelling and cleansing. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle for 30 seconds. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can manage pain and reduce inflammation.
Throat lozenges or sprays offer temporary relief by numbing or coating the area. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, preventing dryness and irritation. Avoiding irritants like smoking, very hot or spicy foods, and alcohol prevents further aggravation. Resting the voice can also aid recovery if discomfort is due to overuse.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many cases resolve with self-care, certain symptoms warrant professional help. Seek medical attention if pain is severe and interferes with eating or drinking, causing difficulty swallowing or drooling. Red flags include a sore throat with high fever, swollen glands, or difficulty breathing (stridor).
If symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days of self-care, professional evaluation is needed. White patches, ulcers, or unusual growths on the soft palate also warrant a visit. Difficulty opening the mouth fully, a muffled voice, or persistent hoarseness lasting over two weeks are further signs needing prompt assessment.
Medical Diagnosis and Treatment
When soft palate pain requires professional attention, a healthcare provider will begin with a thorough medical history and physical examination. This involves visually assessing the soft palate, tonsils, and throat for inflammation, infection, or injury. Further diagnostic tests may be recommended.
A throat swab may test for bacterial infections, such as strep throat. Blood tests can identify viral infections, such as mononucleosis. If acid reflux is suspected, an endoscopy, using a thin, flexible tube with a camera, might examine the esophagus and stomach lining.
Treatment focuses on the underlying cause. For bacterial infections, antibiotics are prescribed. Viral infections usually receive supportive care.
If acid reflux is the cause, treatment includes antacids or acid-suppressing medications. Anti-inflammatory medications can reduce swelling and pain. If allergies contribute, antihistamines may be recommended. Specialized treatments might be necessary in some cases.