You’re most likely reminded of your childhood when you get a sore throat. In those days, your sore throat remedies were simple: taking the day off from school and eating plenty of chicken noodle soup. Or perhaps you eased your sore throat with throat lozenges and your favorite Netflix show.
Whatever the case, your sore throat was a kind of typical childhood condition. And you still basically consider a sore throat to be routine. You expect it to clear up on its own after a few days.
But what if it’s more than a common sore throat? There are some instances in which a sore throat can point to a more serious illness. But how can you tell?
Common sore throat causes
Sadly, a sore throat is not an especially unique symptom of sickness. In part, that’s because of the way your body tends to defend itself from infections (lots of mucus leading to lots of irritation). Many of the following viral sore throats are fairly common as a result:
- Mononucleosis (often simply called “mono”): Mono is spread through saliva (which is why it’s called “the kissing disease”) and causes acute fatigue.
- COVID-19: The novel coronavirus has been known to lead to sore throats in some people who develop symptoms. This is more prevalent (and typically more severe) in both Delta and Omicron variants of COVID-19.
- Influenza: A wide variety of symptoms, including a sore throat, come along with the flu. High fever and aching joints are some other symptoms.
- Chicken Pox: While typically related to the mosquito-bite-like bumps that develop (and itch), chicken pox can also cause several other symptoms, and that includes a sore throat.
- Croup: This is a common infection that impacts the upper respiratory system which is particularly common in children. People with Croup frequently develop a barking like cough along side of a sore throat.
- The Common Cold: You probably realize that a stuffy or runny nose usually comes with the common cold. Irritation and soreness will result when post nasal drip trickles down into the throat.
Viral conditions aren’t impacted by antibiotics. Normally, rest and time are what your doctor will advise. For symptom alleviation, you can rely on sore throat remedies like cough drops and fluids.
Depending on the specific virus, this will vary. Sometimes, therapeutic treatments are available (for example, steroids or specially designed antivirals). If any of the viral symptoms persist, seek help.
Non-viral causes of common soar throats
In some instances, it isn’t a virus but a bacteria that triggers your sore throat symptoms. Strep Throat is a very common bacterial example. Typically, antibiotics are prescribed for strep throat, and these therapeutics will get rid of your sore throat symptoms in a matter of days.
There are even some common causes that have nothing to do with bacteria or viruses. Here are a few:
- Allergies or allergic reactions.
- Acid reflux or heartburn.
- Irritation from pollutants and chemicals.
- Weather related irritation (extreme heat or cold with low humidity).
Can a sore throat mean something more substantial is going on?
Typical, a sore throat will be caused by a common cold or flu. But a sore throat can also be an indication of some less common, but often very serious illnesses. Some of those serious ailments include the following:
- Chronic tonsillitis: There are times when chronic infections assail your tonsils. The tonsils will need to be removed if these infections occur too frequently. Both tonsillitis and the surgery to remove your tonsils can trigger an extreme sore throat.
- Epiglottitis: Prompt treatment is needed for this potential fatal inflammation of the epiglottis. It is typically caused by an infection of Hib (haemophilus influenza type B), but can occasionally be caused by trauma.
- Tumors: There are situations where the sore throat is caused by the tumor itself. As the tumor gets bigger, it can put pressure on parts of your throat or cause other inflammation. If the tumor is found in the throat, larynx, or tongue this is especially true.
- HIV infections: Your lymph nodes are a critical part of your immune system. Sore throat symptoms can manifest when HIV causes the lymph nodes to fill up with fluid.
- Cancer: One of a number of types of cancer can, in some situations, lead to a sore throat. Treatments could include a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
- Thyroid issues: Your thyroid generally delivers certain hormones through your body. When your thyroid has issues it can cause a sore throat because it’s located in your neck.
How can I tell if my sore throat is something serious or the more common type?
So, you’re experiencing a sore throat and none of your normal sore throat solutions seem to be working. Understandably, you want to know if you should be worried. The good news is that in almost all cases, a sore throat will be gone in only a few days.
However, there are some indications that you might have a more serious concern:
- Trouble breathing: If your sore throat is impeding your breathing, you should get in touch with a medical professional right away.
- Take an at-home Covid test: Also consider the possibility that your sore throat may be caused by COVID-19. This can also help stop you from infecting others with Covid.
- Your sore throat isn’t clearing up: Something more serious could be taking place if your sore throat doesn’t get better after 3=5 days (even if that something more serious is an especially severe case of strep throat). If your sore throat isn’t getting better, be certain to schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible.
- You have a high fever: Contact us immediately if you have a fever with your sore throat and over-the-counter treatments like Tylenol aren’t working.
There are a few other signs that something significant might be happening. If, for instance, you notice any sores or lumps, be sure to make an appointment with us.
So here’s the general rule of thumb: sore throats are rather common and will typically clear themselves up. But you need to come in and see us if your symptoms don’t get better for a couple of weeks or more. In the meantime, rest and binge your favorite streaming shows.
References
https://www.bcm.edu/news/when-to-worry-about-a-sore-throat