Scalding the mouth or throat on unexpectedly hot food or liquid is a common and painful accident. This sudden thermal exposure can range from minor, temporary irritation to a serious injury requiring medical attention. Understanding the mechanism of this injury, knowing how to provide immediate care, and implementing simple precautions are important steps.
Understanding Thermal Injury to the Throat
Hot food can burn the throat through a process called thermal denaturation. This occurs when excessive heat from food or liquid rapidly damages the delicate protein structures within the mucosal lining of the mouth, pharynx, and esophagus. While the protective reflex to spit out scalding food often limits damage to the oral mucosa, a quick swallow can carry the heat deeper into the throat and aerodigestive tract.
A superficial burn, similar to a first-degree burn on the skin, manifests as immediate pain, noticeable redness, mild swelling, and heightened sensitivity. The soft tissues in the mouth and upper throat are particularly vulnerable due to their thin, moist nature. More significant thermal insults can lead to the formation of blisters or pseudomembranes, which are whitish patches of damaged tissue.
The most serious concern with a thermal throat injury is the potential for delayed swelling in the larynx (voice box) or the supraglottic area. This swelling, called laryngeal edema, may not appear immediately but can progressively restrict the airway over several hours. Burns to the esophagus are less common but can cause symptoms like pain or difficulty swallowing (odynophagia or dysphagia).
Immediate Home Treatment and Relief
For a mild, superficial burn confined to the mouth or upper throat, the first step is to cool the affected tissue to halt thermal damage. Immediately swish the mouth with cool water or milk for several minutes to draw heat away from the burn site. Sucking on a small piece of ice or a frozen treat, like a popsicle, provides sustained cooling and immediate pain relief.
Once the initial burning sensation subsides, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage ongoing discomfort and reduce inflammation. To promote healing and prevent further irritation, switch to a soft, bland diet for the next few days. Avoid foods that are acidic, such as citrus fruits, or those that are spicy, crunchy, or excessively hot.
It is necessary to seek immediate medical attention if you experience specific symptoms that indicate a deeper injury or potential airway compromise. These warning signs include difficulty breathing, a noticeable change in your voice, an inability to swallow, or a persistent sore throat that worsens over time. Visible blistering in the throat or a feeling of something stuck also warrants prompt professional assessment.
Preventing Future Oral Burns
Preventing thermal injury requires awareness of how heat is retained and distributed in food, particularly in liquids and items heated in a microwave. Microwave ovens can create unevenly heated areas, known as “hot spots,” especially in dense foods or those containing liquid centers like cheese or pocket foods. Always stir microwave-heated food thoroughly and allow it to stand for at least two minutes before tasting so the heat disperses evenly.
Before taking a full bite or sip, practice a simple temperature test by touching a small amount of the food or liquid to your lip or the tip of your tongue. This sensitive area can detect excessive heat before the food reaches the more vulnerable lining of the throat. For hot beverages like coffee or soup, allow steam to dissipate completely and wait a few minutes before consuming.
Liquid foods and beverages, such as soups and teas, retain heat longer than solid foods, making them a frequent cause of scalding. When serving children, always test the temperature yourself to ensure it is lukewarm. Never place hot containers near the edge of a counter where they could be easily pulled down.