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Sore throat – causes, treatment

Almost all of us have experienced it at least once in our lives. Sudden, stinging, scratching or dull – sore throat. This is one of the most common ailments that prompts us to visit a pharmacy or doctor’s office. Although it is often a symptom of a trivial matter, such as a slight cold, it can effectively make everyday functioning unpleasant, making it difficult to swallow, speak and even sleep. What causes it? And most importantly – how to deal with it effectively, using both home remedies and available medicines?

What is a sore throat and why does it hurt? Anatomy of the ailment

To understand why the throat hurts, it is worth taking a look at its structure for a moment. The pharynx (Latin: pharynx) is a common section for the respiratory and digestive tracts. It is divided into three parts: nasal, oral and laryngeal. It is in the oral and laryngeal parts that inflammation is most often located, which we feel as pain.

Pain is an alarm signal of the body. In the case of the throat, it most often indicates inflammation (Latin for sore throat – causes). pharyngitis). Inflammation is a natural defensive reaction of the immune system to the presence of pathogens (viruses, bacteria) or irritants. During it, blood vessels dilate, their permeability increases and the influx of immune cells to the site of infection. The result of this process is redness, swelling and irritation of pain receptors – hence the characteristic feeling of scratching, stinging and pain, especially when swallowing.

The most common causes of a sore throat – know your enemy

A sore throat is not a disease in itself, but a symptom. Determining its cause is crucial for choosing the right treatment. Below is a catalog of the most common culprits.

Viral throat infections – the most common culprit (about 85-95% of cases)

Viruses are by far the most common cause of sore throats in adults and children. These infections are usually milder than bacterial infections and are often accompanied by other symptoms.

Cold: sore throat – causes. Caused by more than 200 different viruses (mainly rhinoviruses and coronaviruses), it is the main cause of sore throats. Pain is usually one of the first symptoms, often described as scratching and dryness. It is accompanied by a runny nose, sneezing, and sometimes a slight cough and a low-grade fever.

Flu: It is caused by influenza viruses type A and B. A sore throat is often more severe here than with a cold. Flu is characterized by a sudden onset, high fever (above 38°C), muscle and joint pain, chills and a strong feeling of shattering.

Infectious mononucleosis: Called the “kissing disease”, it is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It manifests itself as a very severe sore throat with visible white coatings on the tonsils, significant swollen lymph nodes (especially cervical), high fever and extreme weakness.

Other viruses: A sore throat can also be caused by adenoviruses (often with conjunctivitis), herpes viruses or chickenpox.

Bacterial pharyngitis – when an antibiotic is needed (about 5-15% of cases)

Although rarer, bacterial infections tend to be more violent and severe. They require medical consultation and most often antibiotic treatment.

Purulent angina (streptococcal pharyngitis): This is the most common bacterial infection of the throat, caused by group A streptococci (Streptococcus pyogenes). It is characterized by a very severe, sharp sore throat that makes it difficult to swallow saliva. Common symptoms include:

– Sudden onset and high fever (above 38.5°C).

– Vivid red throat and tonsils.

– White or yellowish purulent coatings on the tonsils.

– Swollen and painful cervical lymph nodes.

– No cough or runny nose (which distinguishes it from viral infections).

– Untreated streptococcal angina poses a risk of serious complications, such as rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis, which is why it requires antibiotic treatment.

Other bacteria: Less commonly, other bacteria are responsible for sore throats, such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae or (very rarely in countries with widespread vaccinations) cordyceps diphtheria.

Seasonal and year-round allergies – when a sore throat is not an infection

Allergens such as grass pollen, tree pollen, dust, animal hair or mold spores can cause chronic inflammation of the mucous membranes. Allergic sore throats are often described as persistent scratching, tickling, and a feeling of dryness. It is usually accompanied by other allergy symptoms:

– Watery runny nose and volleys of sneezing.

– Itchy and watery eyes.

– A foreign body in the throat that further irritates the throat can cause a sore throat.

Irritants and Environmental Factors

The throat is sensitive to what we breathe. Long-term exposure to irritants can lead to chronic pain and discomfort.

Dry air: Especially during the heating season, when indoor humidity drops, the mucous membrane of the throat dries up, becoming susceptible to irritation and infection. The pain is often strongest in the morning, after a night spent in a dry room.

Cigarette smoke (active and passive smoking): Tobacco smoke contains thousands of toxic substances that directly irritate and damage the epithelium of the respiratory tract.

Air pollution (smog): Particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10) and other pollutants present in smog irritate the entire respiratory tract.

Spicy food and alcohol: They can directly irritate the sensitive mucous membrane of the throat.

Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) – the silent culprit of morning pain

Reflux is a condition in which acidic gastric contents back up into the esophagus, and sometimes up to the throat and larynx (so-called sore throat – causes). laryngopharyngeal reflux). This usually happens at night, in a lying position. Acidic gastric juice acts as an acid on the delicate mucous membrane of the throat, causing it to become chemically irritated. Common symptoms include:

– Sore and burning throat, strongest in the morning.

– Feeling of a “lump” in the throat (the so-called globus hystericus).

– Chronic hoarseness and the need to clear your throat.

– Dry, persistent cough.

– It is often accompanied by heartburn, but it is not always present.

Other, rarer causes of sore throat

Vocal cord strain: Long talking, shouting or singing (e.g. in teachers, singers) can lead to a sore throat and hoarseness.

Injury or foreign body: Scratching the throat with hard food (e.g., bone, dry bread crust) can cause sharp, localized pain.

Throat or laryngeal cancers: This is a rare, but the most serious cause. The pain is usually chronic, one-sided, intensifying and not going away despite treatment. Alarm symptoms include: hoarseness lasting more than 3 weeks, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), hemoptysis, a lump in the neck, unintentional weight loss. They require urgent diagnostics, especially in the case of a one-sided sore throat.

When to go to the doctor? Alarm symptoms that cannot be ignored

Most cases of sore throat can be treated at home. However, there are situations that require professional medical evaluation. Consult your doctor if:

The pain is very strong, making it impossible to swallow fluids and saliva.

You have difficulty breathing or opening your mouth.

Fever exceeds 38.5°C and does not decrease after antipyretics.

A white or yellow purulent coating is visible on the tonsils.

The lymph nodes in the neck are significantly enlarged and painful.

A rash appears on the skin.

The sore throat is one-sided and accompanied by ear pain.

Symptoms do not improve after 3-5 days of self-medication or even worsen.

A sore throat recurs very often.

You have weakened immunity (e.g. due to chemotherapy, HIV, immunosuppressants).

Alarm symptoms indicating cancer appear (chronic hoarseness, hemoptysis, a tumor on the neck).

In children, a visit to the doctor is advisable sooner, especially when the child is apathetic, refuses to drink, drools excessively or has difficulty breathing.

Home remedies for sore throats – a proven pharmacy of nature

When a sore throat is the result of a viral infection or irritation, home remedies can provide significant relief and speed up recovery. Here are the most effective of them:

1. Irrigation is key

Drinking plenty of fluids keeps the mucous membranes properly moisturized, which soothes irritation and helps thin the secretion. Still water at room temperature is best. Warm (but not hot!) drinks, such as herbal teas or broth, have a soothing effect.

2. Gargling with salt water

This is one of the oldest and most effective methods. The saline solution helps reduce swelling of the throat mucosa through the process of osmosis (pulls excess water out of the tissues) and has a mild antiseptic effect, which can relieve pain.

How to prepare? Dissolve half a teaspoon of table salt in a glass (250 ml) of warm, boiled water. Gargle for 30-60 seconds, then spit out the solution. Repeat 3-4 times a day.

3. Herbal rinses and infusions

Nature offers many herbs with anti-inflammatory, astringent and disinfectant properties.

Sage: It has an antiseptic and astringent effect, reducing swelling.

Chamomile: Soothes inflammation and irritation.

Thyme: It has strong antibacterial and expectorant properties.

Marshmallow root: It contains mucilage that coats the throat with a protective layer, relieving pain and dryness.

4. Honey and lemon – a classic duo

Warm water with honey and lemon is a popular and effective remedy. Honey has natural antibacterial properties and forms a soothing film on the throat. Lemon provides vitamin C. Remember not to add honey to boiling water, as it will lose its valuable properties – add it to a slightly cooled drink.

5. Onion and garlic syrup

A traditional, home remedy to strengthen immunity and fight infection. Both onion and garlic contain sulfur compounds with strong antibacterial and antiviral properties.

6. Air humidification

Dry air intensifies a sore throat. Use a humidifier, especially in the bedroom. If you don’t have one, put a wet towel on the radiator or take a hot shower to inhale the water vapor.

7. Rest for the voice and body

Save your voice – avoid talking, and if you must, speak softly, but don’t whisper, as whispering puts even more strain on the vocal cords. Give your body time to recover and fight infection – rest and sleep are key.

8. Avoiding irritants

For the duration of your illness, give up smoking, drinking alcohol, eating very spicy and acidic foods, which can further irritate the throat.

Pharmacological treatment – what can you find in a pharmacy?

When home remedies are not enough, it is worth reaching for preparations available at the pharmacy. They can be divided into over-the-counter (OTC) medications and those prescribed by a doctor.

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications

Lozenges: This is the most popular form. They may contain various active substances:

Local anesthetic ingredients: e.g. lidocaine, benzocaine. They relieve pain quickly, but their effect is short-lived.

Antiseptics: e.g. cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine. They disinfect the mucous membrane, inhibiting the growth of microorganisms.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): e.g. flurbiprofen, choline salicylate. They have an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, reaching the source of the problem.

Natural and herbal ingredients: e.g. Iceland moss extract (moisturizes), honey, propolis.

Throat sprays: They work similarly to tablets, allowing for precise application of the drug directly to the painful area.

Oral analgesics and antipyretics:

Acetaminophen: A safe drug with analgesic and antipyretic effects.

Ibuprofen (and other NSAIDs): In addition to its analgesic and antipyretic effects, it also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which is very beneficial in the treatment of sore throats, especially in cases of acute pharyngitis, which can occur in pregnant women.

Prescription Medications

Antibiotics: They are ONLY effective for bacterial pharyngitis (e.g. strep throat). The doctor prescribes them based on an examination and often the result of a rapid streptococcal test. The use of antibiotics for viral infections is a mistake – it does not work, and it contributes to the growth of antibiotic resistance. Remember to always take the entire prescribed dose of the antibiotic, even if you feel better sooner.

Other medicines: In specific cases, the doctor may recommend other medications, e.g. steroids to quickly reduce severe swelling or antiviral drugs (e.g. in the severe course of influenza). In the case of a sore throat caused by reflux, the basis of treatment is drugs that inhibit the secretion of gastric acid (so-called proton pump inhibitors – PPIs).

Summary – how to deal with a sore throat wisely?

A sore throat is an ailment that can be effectively remedied in most cases. The key is to understand its potential causes and act accordingly.

1. Observe the symptoms: Try to assess whether you are dealing with a viral infection (sore throat, runny nose, cough, low-grade fever) or perhaps a bacterial infection (severe pain, high fever, purulent coatings, no cough).
2. Act fast: At the first symptoms of a scratchy throat, start with home remedies. Increase the amount of fluids you drink, gargle with salt water or sage infusion to relieve a sore throat.
3. Support yourself wisely to relieve a sore throat – causes. If the pain is bothersome, reach for over-the-counter medications – lozenges or spray with an anti-inflammatory substance and oral painkillers.
4. Rest: Give your body a chance to fight infection. Sleep and rest are the best allies.
5. Don’t be afraid of the doctor: If the symptoms are worrying, intensify or do not go away, do not hesitate to visit a specialist. Correct diagnosis, especially in the case of strep throat, is crucial to avoid dangerous complications.
6. Remember about prevention: Washing your hands frequently, avoiding large gatherings of people during the infection season, taking care of your immunity and proper humidification of the air at home is the best way to avoid a sore throat.

Treat a sore throat as a signal that your body sends you. By listening carefully and responding in the right way, you can quickly return to full health and comfort.