9 reasons why you may have a persistent sore throat and how to treat it at home
Dealing with a persistent sore throat can be incredibly annoying and uncomfortable. It's one of those pesky ailments that can linger on for days or even weeks, making every swallow a painful reminder. If you're wondering why that scratchiness just won't go away, here are nine common reasons and some easy ways to treat it at home.
9 reasons why you may have a persistent sore throat
1) Allergies
Seasonal allergens like pollen or dust can irritate your throat, leading to persistent discomfort.
2) Postnasal Drip
When excess mucus from your nose drips down the back of your throat, it can cause irritation and soreness.
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3) Mouth Breathing
Breathing through your mouth, especially at night, can dry out your throat, making it prone to soreness.
4) Acid Reflux
Stomach acid backing up into your throat (acid reflux) can irritate the sensitive lining, causing a sore throat.
5) Tonsillitis
Inflammation of the tonsils due to viral or bacterial infections can result in a painful sore throat.
6) Mono (Mononucleosis)
The Epstein-Barr virus, which causes mono, can lead to a persistent sore throat along with fatigue and swollen glands.
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7) Gonorrhea
This sexually transmitted infection can sometimes cause a sore throat as one of its symptoms.
8) Air Pollution
Exposure to air pollutants, cigarette smoke, or other irritants can inflame and irritate your throat.
9) Smoking
Both smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke can significantly irritate and inflame the throat.
How to treat it at home
Suck on lozenges or hard candy: Soothes the throat and promotes saliva production.
Drink plenty of water: Keeps your throat hydrated and helps flush out irritants.
Eat popsicles or chipped ice: Provides relief by numbing the throat.
Run a humidifier: Adds moisture to dry indoor air, easing throat dryness.
Nasal irrigation: Clears mucus and irritants from nasal passages.
Steam treatment: Inhaling steam from hot water or a shower helps moisturize and soothe the throat.
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Warm broth or tea with honey and lemon: Provides warmth and soothes the throat.
Apple cider vinegar: Diluted in juice, it can help with throat inflammation.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen can reduce throat pain and inflammation.
Gargle with salt water: Helps reduce throat swelling and discomfort.
Allergy or cold medication: Helps manage symptoms if allergies or a cold are causing your sore throat.
Remember, if your sore throat persists for more than a week, is accompanied by a high fever, difficulty swallowing, or swollen glands, it's essential to see a healthcare professional. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment to alleviate your discomfort.
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