A sore throat is a common condition that everyone has likely experienced at some point. Characterized by pain, redness and inflammation, the severity of a sore throat can range from mildly uncomfortable to completely intolerable. The first step in treating a sore throat is understanding the cause, and here is a look at some of the most common ones.
Air Quality
Indoor air quality can play a large role when it comes to developing a sore throat. Pollutants like tobacco smoke and even dust can irritate the delicate tissues of the throat, leading to pain and soreness. Even if a person doesn't smoke, being around people who do can exacerbate throat pain. Additionally, dry indoor air can dehydrate the tissues of the throat, leading to uncomfortable inflammation and soreness.
To combat these risk factors, don't allow smoking inside of the home and consider the use of an air purifier system to remove potential irritants. A cool mist humidifier can add moisture to the air, which can be an effective way to prevent sore throat caused by dry conditions.
Allergies
Millions of people suffer from allergies, and pollen, dust, mold, and pet dander are some of the most common allergens that can lead to a sore throat. Avoiding these substances is one way to fix the problem, but that may not always be possible. Therefore, it's important for sufferers to speak to their doctor about treating allergies with prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Acid Reflux and GERD
Although not identical, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and acid reflux are quite similar—both cause an excessive amount of stomach acid to back up into the esophagus. This can not only cause a sore throat, but also hoarseness, heartburn, and even the sensation of a lump in the throat. Avoiding spicy foods and other triggers can be helpful in preventing flare-ups; however, anyone with reflux issues should see their doctor to rule out potentially serious medical conditions and learn about the treatment options that are available.
Muscular Strain
The muscles of the throat can be strained just like any other muscles in the body. There are a variety of things that can contribute to muscle-strain induced sore throat, including yelling at concerts and sporting events. Even singing, especially for long periods of time, can strain the throat and cause pain and discomfort. The best way to avoid this common cause of sore throat is to avoid straining the voice whenever possible. Vocalists may find a level of relief by drinking pineapple juice or using a throat coating tea or spray before performing.
Viruses and Bacteria
There are a variety of viruses and bacteria that can cause sore throat, with the common cold being one of the leading culprits. Upper respiratory infections and bronchitis are also illnesses that frequently manifest with throat pain, redness, and inflammation. Bacterial infections like group A streptococcus, commonly known as strep throat, can also cause throat pain.
Although antibiotics are not normally used for treating viruses, they are often necessary when it comes to eradicating a bacterial infection. Proper medical evaluation is necessary to distinguish a virus from a bacteria and also to obtain the correct treatment.
