What Causes Pain While Swallowing, Neck Pain And Difficulty To Open Mouth?

Posted on Tue, 5 Jan 2016

Question: several days ago my neck started hurting in the area just below the ears R/L down the front of each side of my throat, and migrating out to the front along the collar bones to the tip of my shoulders. It hurts to swallow,, open my mouth to eat, sneeze, and my motions right left up and down are all painful. I don't think there was an injury of any kind,,,,but I do have a history of scoliosis and a bulging disc on my right. Is this an ER visit, or will heat and cold for a few days take care of things. Also I am unable to raise my hands above shoulder level. I am 71 and pretty active, but I am also a written, and just finished a book that was published the 1st of the month.

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (35 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
possibility of cervical radiculopathy needs to be evaluated

Detailed Answer:
Hello xxxxxxxxxxxx,
I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.
These features are suggestive of cervical radiculopathy due to compression of nerve roots exiting from neck region.
Weakness in shoulder region is also related to this.
You need to avoid extreme neck movements. Neck collar may also be required.
Take pain killer with muscle relaxants. Pregabalin or gabapentin may also be taken.
Calcium supplementation is must.
Provide any other details regarding your health.
You need to visit a neurologist for detailed clinical examination and mri of cervical spine.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Do get back with further queries.
Congratulation for your book.
Regards
Dr Neeraj Kumar
Neurologist

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D