Monday, March 25, 2024
HomeNewsHow To Treat Sore Throat From Allergies

How To Treat Sore Throat From Allergies

When To See A Doctor

Allergies and Sore Throat Treating the Cause

A person can often use home remedies to treat sore throats and allergies. However, speak to a doctor if symptoms are severe or do not improve with OTC medications and allergen avoidance strategies.

A person with a sore throat should see a doctor if it lasts for more than a week or two or if

they experience any of the following symptoms:

  • difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • blood in saliva
  • swelling or lumps in the face or neck

Doctors can also arrange for skin prick tests or blood tests to determine which allergen is triggering a personâs symptoms.

How Can We Treat Sore Throat Allergies

Preventing throat allergies is extremely important because it may lead to serious consequences. The foremost step that one should do is to limit itself from getting exposed to irritants as little as possible.

Avoid irritants like cigarette smoke and pet dander as much as possible. Keep the windows closed during the spring seasons and try to wear a surgical mask outside that will protect the throat from getting airborne allergens even in the worst season of the year.

Side by side, one must consult a doctor if the sore throat allergies do not get better after medication.

Over the counter, anti-allergens medication compositions such as antihistamines like loratadine or Claritin and cetirizine may be taken daily to alleviate allergy symptoms. These composite medications work by preventing the body from experiencing a histamine response.

Immediate doctor many times recommends a prescription of medication consisting of nasal sprays or decongestants that helps to prevent the postnasal drip that leads to severe sore throat allergies.

A study is published by the American Academy of Family Physicians, in which the researchers have stated that on average most people need one or two shots of allergy shots per week with a course consisting of six months. The monthly maintenance of shots on average is required for three to five years.

When To See A Doctor About Throat Pain

Dr. Allan says to use common sense when deciding whether to seek out medical care.

  • Have throat pain thats severe, prolonged or not improving, or stretches into your ear.
  • Have trouble swallowing, breathing or opening your mouth.
  • Are coughing up blood or have blood in your saliva.
  • Feel enlarged lymph nodes, or lumps, in your neck.
  • Have white patches on the back of your throat or a rash, possible signs of strep throat or scarlet fever.
  • Have a high fever.
  • Lose your voice for more than a week or two.

And remember, when it comes to illnesses, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of hot toddies. Wash your hands often. And if you do get sick, Dr. Allan advises immediately replacing your toothbrush with a fresh, germ-free one.

Also Check: Is Zyrtec Good For Allergies

Does Everyone With Covid Experience Similar Symptoms

COVID-19 can cause a wide range of symptoms. Some people have mild symptoms, while others have severe illness. People who are fully vaccinated and contract COVID are less likely to experience severe symptoms. Symptoms may occur at different times during the infection, and do not always overlap. Symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus. For some, symptoms can last longer than this period.

How To Treat A Sore Throat Caused By Allergies

Pin on Flu Remedies

Allergy meds are usually the best place to start. Antihistamines, like Claritin, Zyrtec, or Benadryl, can help tame inflammation and ease your symptoms overall, Dr. Mehdizadeh says. Nasal sprays, like ipratropium, and nasal glucocorticoids, like fluticasone, are good for easing postnasal drip, too.

Natural remedies could also make a difference. Gargling with warm saltwater can help get rid of irritating mucus, and drinking plenty of water or inhaling steam may soothe scratchiness.

Of course, prevention might be the most effective tactic of all. Minimizing your exposure to allergenssay, by keeping your windows closed and showering as soon as you come inside after being outdoorscan keep your symptoms from flaring up and help stop that sore throat before it starts.

Read Also: Latex Allergy Food To Avoid

Home Remedies To Get Rid Of A Sore Throat

In the meantime, try some of Dr. Allans tried and true ways to alleviate your sore throat, below.

1. Warm and cold fluids.

Sip on warm drinks, like tea or chicken soup. Or try cold liquids, such as ice water or popsicles. It depends on your preference and what soothes your throat best.

Liquids help clear mucous membranes, keep things flowing and prevent sinus infections, says Dr. Allan. Warm temperatures may also reduce coughs by soothing the back of the throat. Try both warm and cold to see what works best for you.

2. Gargling.

Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt or a similar amount of baking soda in a glass of warm water. Gargle the concoction every three hours for an all-natural sore throat remedy.

Salt water can help reduce swelling and irritation in your throat. Baking soda also soothes the throat, breaks up mucus and can help with throat-irritating acid reflux.

3. Over-the-counter antihistamines and pain relievers.

An antihistamine may dull or relieve throat pain. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen also help with pain thats located a little deeper in the glands and other parts of the neck.

Histamines are chemicals that help your immune system fight foreign substances. But sometimes they go overboard, triggering symptoms that can make a sore throat feel worse, says Dr. Allan. Antihistamines can counteract this overreaction.

4. Steam and humidity.

Take a hot shower. When it gets really steamy, breathe in the throat-clearing magic.

5. Hot toddy.

6. Rest.

What Helps Soothe An Irritated Throat Not Caused By Post

If it turns out your sore throat isnt the result of post-nasal drip, your treatment options will be a bit different. On top of avoiding pollution and irritants, gargling with saltwater, and using a humidifier, you should also:

  • Drink warm liquids like soup broth and tea with honey
  • Eat cold foods like popsicles
  • Get plenty of rest
  • Try not to speak too much to give your throat a rest

You May Like: Zyrtec Vs. Claritin

When To Contact Your Health Care Provider

If your symptoms dont improve, or you feel worse, you should contact your health care provider. The American Academy of Otolaryngology2 recommends alerting your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or opening your mouth
  • Swelling of the neck or face
  • Earache
  • A fever of 101°F or higher
  • Lumps in the throat or neck

If you have allergies that lead to a sore throat, treating them with OTC medication or natural remedies may provide you with relief from pain and discomfort. But if your symptoms worsen, contact your health care provider to rule out a more serious health concern.

Ask Your Doctor About Balloon Sinuplasty

Sore Throat from Cold or Allergies: How to Know the Difference

Balloons sinuplasty is a more permanent solution to sinusitis. This means that along with your sore throat, other symptoms like sinus headaches, facial pain, fever, congestion, and more can be eliminated. If you live in the New York area, contact Dr. Eric Cohen. As a leading practitioner of Balloon Sinuplasty and a qualified otolaryngologist, he can diagnose and treat your symptoms. Seek relief today.

Don’t Miss: Allegra For Skin Allergies

What Are The Causes Of Sore Throat Allergies

Sore throat allergies are caused by many different reasons. It is a case where the immune system in the body is exposed to an allergen that occurs congestion in the sinuses that drains down the throat completely. An allergic sore throat can cause scratchy pain and tickle in the throat. The drainage of the throat can cause

  • Throat irritation
  • Coughing
  • Difficulty in speaking

Allergy symptoms include itchy eyes, coughing, congestion, and many more, and if there is a sore throat with fever and body aches, this is likely due to viral infections like colds and flu. Allergies are caused when a reactive element called Allergens comes in contact with the bodys immune system. These Allergens are the substance that causes allergic reactions in the body. Many allergens such as pollen allergens are one of the seasonal allergies that cause sore throat allergies. These allergens include pollination of flowers and trees.

Other common allergens that can result in a sore throat, such as:

  • Dust mites
  • Pet dander
  • Smoking Cigarette

Scratchiness in the throat is another way to determine if you have an induced-sore throat or not. In the allergic sore throat, the immune system overactive for unknown reasons and confuses the body with harmless substances like airborne dust and pollen germs.

When a body is developing allergies, it releases a chemical called histamine that fights the allergen in the same manner as it fights with cold and flu.

When To Seek Emergency Care

If you or someone else is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Inability to wake or stay awake
  • Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone

This list is not exhaustive. If you are concerned, seek medical care right away.

Don’t Miss: Swollen Tonsils Allergies

The Effects Of Allergens

An allergen is a substance that causes an allergic reaction. When you’re allergic to something, your bodys immune system incorrectly identifies it as dangerous and begins creating antibodies against it. This antibody response is the reason your body produces allergy symptoms.

Common allergens that may cause a sore throat related to postnasal drip include:

How Can I Prevent Colds And Allergies

17+ best images about Health Cold &  Flu on Pinterest

To avoid catching a virus and spreading colds:

  • Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes.
  • Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth, which are the areas of your body most vulnerable to germs.

To avoid seasonal allergies:

  • Try to limit your contact with the allergens you react to.
  • If your allergies bother you a lot, immunotherapy may help reduce or even completely prevent irritating symptoms.

Read Also: Does Zyrtec Contain Antihistamine

Gargle With Salt Water

Did you know that gargling with salt water can help provide relief from sore throat pain? The combination of salt and water helps to soothe swelling and irritation in a dry and sore throat.5

We recommend combining 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of table salt with a glass of warm water. Then, leave the solution to dissolve before gargling it for a few seconds in your mouth and spitting it out when finished. You can repeat this method throughout the day and night as often as needed.1

Is Your Sore Throat Caused By An Allergy Or A Cold Tips For Prevention Treatment

11/12/2019 / By Edsel Cook

A sore throat often stems from another health issue, such as an allergy or a viral upper respiratory infection. Identifying the symptoms will advise a person about what steps to take to alleviate the root cause of the condition.

Allergies and respiratory infections share several symptoms. Patients with either issue will suffer from coughing, a runny or stuffy nose, tiredness, and sneezing.

Colds, influenza, and other viral infections have distinct symptoms. A sore throat patient who experiences body aches, fevers, muscle aches, and swelling around the neck likely has a respiratory infection.

Likewise, allergies have a unique trait they cause the eyes to itch and water.

Duration is another way to distinguish the cause of the sore throat. Its rare for a cold or flu to last more than two weeks.

In comparison, allergies will endure as long as the patient remains in contact with the allergen. People with hay fever may have to put up with a sore throat during all six weeks of the pollen season .

Eating raw plant-based foods is usually good for health. But it may trigger oral allergy syndrome in some people with hay fever. Fruits, vegetables, and several nuts contain proteins that trigger the same allergic reactions as pollen.

The symptoms of oral allergy syndrome include itchiness in the mouth, irritation in the throat, and redness and swelling of the lips and mouth. Patients will also suffer the typical symptoms of hay fever.

Don’t Miss: Allergy Relief Non Drowsy

Keep Your Throat Moist

Sip plenty of liquids to stay hydrated. Warm drinks — not hot ones — can soothe your throat. Try broth or herbal tea with honey or lemon. Caffeinated drinks like coffee or soda may dehydrate you, so skip them.

Suck on a throat lozenge, crushed ice, ice pop, or a piece of hard candy to get your saliva flowing. Try a peppermint, since its main ingredient, menthol, thins mucus and helps break up it up.

What Is Sore Throat

Allergies and Sore Throat Treating the Cause

When your throat is irritated, inflamed, scratchy, painful, or very dry, its called sore throat. Your throat can be sore from a bacterial or viral infection, allergies or irritants, acid reflux, vocal overuse and strain, or even sleeping with your mouth open for too long. The pain may be worse when you swallow.

Depending on whats causing your sore throat, you can often relieve the pain and irritation by drinking warm liquids or taking throat lozenges. Sore throat caused by a viral infection usually clears up on its own after a few days of rest. A throat infection caused by bacteria is called strep throat. Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics to kill the bacteria.

Also Check: Does Claritin Have Antihistamine

What Causes A Sore Throat

Most sore throats are caused by viruses, such as the cold or flu virus. Some of the more serious causes of sore throat include tonsillitis, strep throat, and mononucleosis . Other causes include smoking, mouth breathing at night while you sleep, pollution, and allergies to pets, pollens and molds. General anesthesia during surgery can cause a sore throat.

Is It Allergies Or A Cold

Cold and allergy symptoms often overlap, so its easy to mistake cold symptoms for allergies, and vice versa. Understanding the cause of your symptoms helps you choose the right treatment. It also gives you a better picture of your overall health.

Clinicians use the 5 factors below to help distinguish between colds and allergies.

Also Check: Does Histamine Cause Bronchoconstriction

When Did You Begin To Feel Unwell

If you remember being around someone who had an upper respiratory infection a few days before you started feeling ill, you may have caught a viral infection. Viruses are spread by contact with sneezes, coughs, and contaminated surfaces such as door handles. Allergies, on the other hand, can begin immediately after coming in contact with triggers such as pollen. If you think you might be experiencing a seasonal allergy, check the pollen count in your area if levels are high, allergies may be the culprit.

Dont Make It Worse: Forego Bad Habits

13 Effective Home Remedies for Allergic Rhinitis With ...

Bad and harmful habits like smoking will only make your symptoms worse. Weve previously discussed how harmful habits contribute to making conditions like a cold or sinusitis worse. You should cut out smoking altogether if you do it regularly. Smoking introduces several toxic chemicals to your system, contributing to cancer, breathing conditions, and so much more.

You May Like: Is Dextromethorphan An Antihistamine

Read Also: How Long Does It Take For Fluticasone To Work

Symptoms Of A Sore Throat

A sore throat means that your throat hurts and is irritated, swollen, or scratchy. It usually hurts worse when you swallow. Depending on the cause of your sore throat, symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • White spots on your throat or tonsils
  • Red, swollen tonsils
  • Swollen glands in your neck
  • Skin rash

In some cases, additional symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Joint or muscle pain

Start With Some Home Remedies For Cold And Allergy Symptoms

When you start feeling icky, some simple home remedies can provide temporary relief. For starters, try to get more rest. Both allergies and colds can cause tiredness, so listen to your body and take it easy.

Also, take advantage of saltwater to soothe irritated nasal passages and scratchy or sore throats.

For your nose, use a neti pot. A neti pot can be picked up at any local drugstore or online, and typically comes with packets to mix with warm, distilled water to create a saltwater solution to pour through your nasal passages.

For your throat, simply mix a quarter or half teaspoon of table salt into an 8-ounce glass of warm water. Take a sip and gargle for a few seconds like you would with mouthwash. Then spit and repeat until the solution is gone. You can do this a couple times a day.

Recommended Reading: Suphedrine Pe Sinus & Allergy

What Are Home Remedies For A Sore Throat

Treatment of pain is often the number one priority if you have a sore throat. Some of these home remedies and self-care steps may help alleviate the pain from a sore throat.

  • Throat lozenges often prove inadequate for all but the most minor cases.
  • Gargling with salt water is sometimes helpful.
  • Although they may be rough on the stomach, NSAIDs are often more effective pain relievers than acetaminophen .
  • Drinking plenty of fluids is very important.
  • A fever can increase fluid requirements, and painful swallowing can decrease fluid intake.
  • When it is hard for a person to drink, it is important to decrease the body’s requirements for fluid through rest and lowering any fever.
  • Pain treatment can help increase fluid intake.
  • Choose high-quality fluids such as soup broth and sugar-containing solutions .
  • Avoid caffeine because it can cause water loss.
  • Getting extra sleep can promote more rapid recovery, especially if a virus is the cause. Malaise is the body’s cry for rest.
  • Is There Any Connection Between A Sore Throat And Allergies

    Treating a Sore Throat Naturally | Guerrilla Health

    A sore throat isnt always an easy fix. Sometimes simply sucking on a lozenge simply isnt enough. If you tend to experience your sore throat during allergy season and a cough drop doesnt do much to help, your sore throat could be due to postnasal drip, which is commonly associated with allergies. Holistic allergy medicine in Arlington Heights, IL, could help you find relief.

    Recommended Reading: Allergy Tablets Non Drowsy

    RELATED ARTICLES

    Most Popular