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With winter still hanging around for a few more weeks, you may be accustomed to a dip in temperature in the mornings. While for some it means the constant anticipation of snow, it could mean sore throats for others.
Having a sore throat does not necessarily mean that you have a cold, but it could be symptomatic of your environment or of another illness.
Common causes for a sore throat in the winter include:
Colder weather typically comes with lower humidity, especially in the Charlotte metro area. When that happens, your throat can lose moisture even if you breathe through your nose. Winter athletes, especially those who spend a lot of time outside, are prone to this due to their higher amount of cold air intake. Cold weather and low humidity can dry out the upper airway passages which makes the body more susceptible to infections. Also, many illnesses are more easily transmitted in the cold.
Dr. Joshua Levine, an ENT physician who practices out of CEENTA Blakeney, explains how lack of moisture can be a factor. “Dry air also decreases mucus clearance in the throat, increasing susceptibility to many different infections. Unfortunately, our immune system defenses are less successful in colder temperatures.”
Colder weather may motivate you to stay inside to beat the chill. While this means avoiding the lower humidity, it also makes you more likely to interact with others who are sick. This situation, along with a reduced immune system that is common in the winter, increases transmission of viruses like influenza, COVID, RSV and bacteria such as Strep.
Soothing your sore throat can depend on the cause. For a sore throat caused by cold air, you can find relief by drinking warm liquids, using ice chips, or enjoying a teaspoon of honey. A humidifier in your room with a closed door can also help during winter.
If your sore throat is due to a bacterial illness such as strep throat or a tonsil infection, your physician may recommend a round of antibiotics. Viral infections, if discovered within 2-3 days, can be treated with antiviral medications in higher risk populations. You can also treat symptoms with anti-inflammatory medications, hydration, and rest.
If you have a high fever, body aches, and recent contact with someone that has the flu or COVID, it is best to visit an urgent care center or similar for rapid viral testing and treatment.
For those of you with recurrent strep throat, severe worsening throat pain, and difficulty swallowing, have one of CEENTA’s award-winning ENT physicians examine your throat. Schedule your next appointment with Dr. Levine at our Blakeney office today by using our online scheduling platform or through myCEENTAchart if you are an existing patient.
This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician.
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CEENTA is proud to announce that eleven of our physicians have been listed as Top Doctors by Business North Carolina Magazine.
