Not just cold or cough: Doctor shares common triggers that can cause a sore throat

We all know the feeling of waking up with a sore throat. The soreness comes with a number of symptoms, such as irritation, scratchiness, and also trouble swallowing. But what actually causes this painful condition? Highlighting this, US-based doctor Kunal Sood, shared the summon triggers and causes that cause a sore throat.

One of the most frequent causes, as per Dr. Sood is the beginning of viral or mild bacterial infection. This is also the most known reason behind a sore throat. He adds before someone gets a fever, a congestion or cough, the throat can be the first place that gets irritated which leads to the scratchy feeling.

Post nasal drip happens when excess mucus produced in the nose or sinuses drains down the back of the throat. Dr. Sood says this is another big reason behind throat soreness. “It can especially happen overnight”, adds the doctor.

Acid reflux is another possible cause behind a sore throat, as per Dr. Sood. He adds, even small amounts of stomach acids, or pepsin, when reached the throat, can inflame the tissue and cause soreness.

Dr. Sood says sometimes the cause is even much simpler. Some common habits and exposure can become a trigger. Dry air, voice strain from excess use, smoke, allergens or other irritants can leave the throat feeling tired.

Highlighting the triggers, Dr. Sood says that most of these causes are temporary and manageable. However, if throat pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by fever, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional to rule out infection or other underlying conditions.