Persistent sore throat – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Causes:

• Viral Infections: While most sore throats are caused by viruses and resolve within a few days, some viral infections, like mononucleosis, can cause a prolonged sore throat.
• Bacterial Infections: Strep throat, caused by Streptococcus bacteria, requires antibiotic treatment to prevent complications like rheumatic fever. Other bacterial infections can also cause sore throats.
• Allergies: Postnasal drip from allergies can irritate the throat and cause a persistent sore throat.
• Acid Reflux (GERD): Stomach acid backing up into the esophagus can irritate the throat and cause a sore throat, especially in the mornings.
• Dry Air: Breathing dry air, especially during winter months, can dry out the throat and make it sore.
• Smoking: Smoking irritates the throat and can contribute to a chronic sore throat.
• Vocal Strain: Overuse or misuse of the voice can strain the vocal cords and cause a sore throat.
• Tumors: Although less common, tumors in the throat or larynx can cause a persistent sore throat.

Diagnosis:

• Physical Exam: Examining the throat, tonsils, and surrounding areas.
• Patient History: Gathering information about the onset, duration, nature of the sore throat, any other symptoms, and relevant medical history.
• Rapid Strep Test: A swab of the throat to quickly test for strep throat.
• Throat Culture: A more sensitive test for strep throat, where a swab is cultured in a lab.
• Monospot Test: A blood test to check for mononucleosis.
• Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected.
• Laryngoscopy: A procedure to visualize the larynx (voice box).

Treatment:

• Viral Infections: Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient for viral sore throats.
• Bacterial Infections: Antibiotics are required for bacterial infections like strep throat.
• Allergies: Allergy medications, such as antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids, can help relieve allergy-related sore throats.
• Acid Reflux: Lifestyle changes (like avoiding trigger foods and elevating the head of the bed) and medications to reduce stomach acid can help.
• Dry Air: Using a humidifier can help moisten the air and relieve a dry throat.
• Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking is essential for improving throat health.
• Vocal Rest: Resting the voice can help heal vocal cord strain.
• Tumors: Treatment will depend on the type and location of the tumor and may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Important Considerations:

• Consult a healthcare professional for a persistent sore throat, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like fever, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, or a rash.
• Do not self-treat a persistent sore throat with antibiotics. Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications.