Pain in throat

What is Pain in the Throat?

Pain in the throat is a common health complaint. It can affect adults and children, and can vary in intensity. Throat pain can range from a mild burning or soreness to severe sharp pain. Throat pain often is accompanied by other symptoms, such as hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or swelling around the neck. Depending on the cause, treatment for throat pain may include home remedies, OTC medications, or prescription drugs.

Causes of Pain in the Throat

Pain in the throat may be caused by many conditions including:

• Viral infections, such as the common cold, the flu, and mononucleosis
• Bacterial infections such as strep throat
• Allergies or hay fever
• Irritations from smoking or pollution
• Sinus or tonsil infections
• Injury such as from swallowing an object or injury to the neck
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Gastrointestinal disorders like ulcers
• Cancer
• Glandular fever

Symptoms of Pain in the Throat

In addition to throat pain, other symptoms associated with throat disorders can include:

• Difficulty swallowing or feeling a lump in your throat
• Frequent coughing or clearing of the throat
• Hoarseness
• Bad breath
• Sore throat
• Pain or difficulty when swallowing
• Nausea with or without vomiting
• Swollen glands in the neck
• Heartburn or indigestion

Treatment for Throat Pain

Throat pain treatment depends on the underlying cause. To ease symptoms of throat pain, it is often recommended to:

• Rest the vocal cords as much as possible.
• Drink plenty of fluids to keep the throat moist.
• Breathe moist air by inhaling steam from a hot bath or shower.
• Use OTC pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Gargle with warm salt water.
• Use a humidifier in the bedroom.
• Suck on lozenges or hard candy.
• Avoid speaking in loud places and shouting.
• Avoid smoking.

If your throat pain persists, speak to a healthcare provider. They will be able to evaluate your symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment.