5 minutes
Burning throat is a common symptom of many conditions. It only warrants a medical consultation if it is very intense, lasts too long, or is accompanied by other significant symptoms.
Burning in the throat is a very common symptom which is usually caused by an infection. In most cases it is not serious and should not be a cause for concern.
There are a number of medical conditions that can cause a burning throat, but they are almost never serious. Some stomach problems, as well as certain habits, easily trigger this symptom.
It is also possible that the burning in the throat is accompanied by other symptoms, without this implying that there is a serious problem. Many times this can be overcome just by resting and drinking plenty of fluids.
Causes of burning in the throat
Burning in the throat can be caused by many reasons. The most common are the ones listed below.
Dry throat
It is very common for burning in the throat to be caused by dryness or irritation, fruit of an environment with low humidity levels. This leads to some tissues drying out more than normal and causing that annoying sensation. Simply use a humidifier to counteract the effect of dry air.
post nasal drip
A runny nose occurs when mucus from the nose builds up, to the point of dripping down the back of the throat. It is the effect of a respiratory infection, a cold, very cold weather or an allergy.
The drip makes the throat sore and burn. There is also mucus in that area and even bad breath.
Gastroesophageal reflux or GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when the muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and the stomach is weakened. Under these conditions, food or stomach acid can rise to the back of the mouth. This causes burning in the throat.
cold or flu
It is very common for burning in the throat to be a symptom of a cold or flu. The usual thing in these cases is that it is accompanied by a runny nose, cough, headache, myalgia and fatigue.
Tonsillitis
The tonsils are protuberances that are at the bottom of the throat and that fulfill the function of helping to fight viruses and bacteria. The inflammation of them is called tonsillitis Y causes burning in the throat, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, fever, headache, and tiredness.
Strep throat
Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes several symptoms, among which is burning in the throat. Likewise, the tonsils become inflamed, there is pain when swallowing and fever occurs. It is solved with antibiotics.
esophagitis
Esophagitis is an inflammation of the esophagus caused by infection, allergies, medications, or gastric reflux. Symptoms are burning in the throat, heartburn and difficulty swallowing.
Sewer system
Burning in the throat can be the result of drainage from the Eustachian tubes. These link the back of the nose with the throat and middle ear. Sometimes they get blocked by a cold, infection, or allergies.
When they work again, there is an unusual influx of fluid into the nose and mouth. This can lead to burning sensation.
infectious mononucleosis
The infectious mononucleosis It is produced by a virus, after 4 to 6 weeks of having come into contact with it. It is a very contagious condition which causes burning in the throat, fever, rash, muscle pain, headache and extreme tiredness. The usual thing is that it is treated with painkillers and ingestion of a lot of liquids. It usually remits between 2-4 weeks after its onset.
burning mouth syndrome
The burning mouth syndrome It is a very painful disease that not only causes burning in the throat, but also pain in and around the mouth. Symptoms also include a dry mouth and the perception of a strange taste. Sometimes it affects the palate, tongue and lips.
peritonsillar abscess
Is is an infection of the head and neck It occurs when there is accumulation of pus in the back of the throat. Many times it turns out to be a complication of tonsillitis.
It generates burning in the throat, difficulty swallowing, chills and fever, swelling in the face and headache. If left untreated it can obstruct breathing.
Cancer
It is not common for burning in the throat to be a symptom of cancer. When it is, it causes an annoyance that does not dissipate over time.
Treatment of burning in the throat
In most cases, burning throat can be treated with home measures without any problem. The goal is to reduce the symptom and relieve discomfort.
It is recommended to perform one or more of the following actions:
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Drink plenty of fluids. This helps the throat not dry out.
- Gargle with salt water. The indicated thing is to use 8 ounces of water for 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Drink hot drinks. Tea with honey is usually an excellent option.
- Eat something very cold. The best alternative is an ice cream. Both heat and cold can be effective.
- To rest. Rest helps you recover and prevents the disease from spreading to others when it comes to an infection.
When to consult the doctor if I have a sore throat?
If the burning in the throat persists for more than a week, it is time to consult the doctor. Also when the pain is very severe, to the point that it prevents talking or eating. Likewise, if a lump appears in the neck or there is pus in the tonsils.
The following symptoms are signs that professional consultation should be sought:
- Persistent fever.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Hoarseness for more than two weeks.
- Very intense muscle pain.
- seizures
There are some populations with which special care must be taken when there is severe burning in the throat. Specifically, those over 65 years of age, young children, pregnant women and those with a weakened immune system.
You might be interested…