Sore throats are a widespread condition and can make swallowing, eating or speaking challenging. Various factors, from illnesses to environmental irritants, can provoke sore throats. Typically, they are not a cause for concern and can be managed effectively at home. Knowing what causes a sore throat and what treatments are available can equip you to handle the condition for yourself or for a loved one.
Identifying and Addressing Sore Throat Triggers and Symptoms
The culprits behind a sore throat are often viral or bacterial infections. Strep throat, for example, is the primary diagnosis in 15-35% of cases in children and 5-15% in adults. However, infections are not the only triggers. Other factors that can induce a sore throat include:
- Environmental irritants such as dry or polluted air and temperature changes
- Allergic reactions
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Exposure to cold weather
While rare, more serious conditions like throat tumors, HIV or epiglottitis can also lead to a sore throat.
Beyond the typical discomfort, while consuming food or speaking, symptoms of a sore throat can extend to a scratchy feeling, tender lymph nodes near the throat or inflamed tonsils, and may coincide with a cough, nasal congestion, runny nose or fever.
Seek medical attention if you or someone in your household experiences persistent symptoms, struggles with breathing or has trouble opening their mouth. Other symptoms necessitating medical attention include:
- Facial or neck swelling
- Fevers exceeding 101°F
- Blood in saliva or phlegm
- Continuous hoarseness for more than two weeks
- Ear pain
- Skin rashes
Soothing a Sore Throat at Home
For a sore throat without severe symptoms, the Mayo Clinic suggests several home treatments:
- Take vocal and physical rest to promote recovery
- Stay hydrated
- Enjoy comforting and warm caffeine-free beverages and foods like soups and teas from Local Lion or cool down with ice pops
- Gargle with salt water
- Use a humidifier to moisten the air
- Steer clear of environmental irritants
- Suck on lozenges or hard candies for those older than four
Herbal remedies may offer relief but consult your physician to prevent interactions with other medications. Herbal treatments should not replace antibiotics for bacterial infections.
If home treatments don’t alleviate the symptoms, keep a close watch and consult a doctor when needed. For further information on ear, nose and throat (ENT) health or to book a consultation, contact Blue Ridge ENT to schedule an appointment.