A persistent sore throat is not always due to the weather or a common cold. It can also be caused by conditions like tonsillitis, allergies, acid reflux, or smoking. If the sore throat persists for months and is accompanied by symptoms such as hoarseness, weight loss, or a lump in the throat, it could also be an early sign of cancer.
Persistent Sore Throat: Typically, a sore throat caused by weather, allergies, or infection resolves within 7-10 days. However, if it persists for an extended period, it can indicate serious illnesses. According to experts, a continuous sore throat can be a symptom of tonsillitis, allergies, GERD, smoking, or even throat and larynx cancer. If a sore throat lasts for more than a few weeks, is accompanied by fever, or a lump is felt in the throat, it is advisable to consult an ENT specialist immediately.
When is it Normal and When is it a Warning Sign?
A sore throat caused by a cold, weather changes, or allergies usually resolves within 7 to 10 days. However, if this sore throat persists for several weeks or months, it is not normal. Especially if it is accompanied by symptoms such as throat pain, swelling, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or weight loss, medical advice should be sought immediately.
Tonsillitis Can Also Be a Cause
Tonsillitis can be a significant reason for a prolonged sore throat. In this condition, the tonsils located at the back of the throat become infected and swollen. This leads to throat pain, difficulty swallowing, a sore throat, and sometimes even a high fever. This problem is more commonly seen in children and adolescents. If it persists for more than a week, prompt treatment becomes necessary.
Dr. Ajit Kumar from the Medicine Department at GTB Hospital, Delhi, explains that a sore throat usually heals within 10 days. However, if it persists for months and is accompanied by symptoms like a hoarse voice, a lump in the throat, sudden weight loss, and difficulty swallowing, it could be an early sign of throat or larynx cancer. In such a situation, getting an immediate expert examination is crucial.
What Else Could Be the Causes?
Infection is not the only reason for a prolonged sore throat; there can be several other causes.
- Chronic Allergies: Persistent allergies to substances like pollen, dust, mold, and pet dander can maintain a sore throat.
- Smoke and Pollution: Prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke or chemicals can make a sore throat chronic.
- GERD (Acid Reflux): When stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and causes irritation, it also affects the throat.
- Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR): In this condition, stomach acid reaches directly into the throat, leading to a persistent sore throat.
Symptoms That Indicate a Serious Problem
If a prolonged sore throat is accompanied by certain symptoms, it may indicate a serious illness.
- Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of something stuck in the throat.
- Hoarseness or a persistently heavy voice.
- Throat pain and itching.
- Swollen glands in the neck.
- Weakening of voice and quick fatigue.
How is it Diagnosed?
Doctors conduct certain tests to understand the causes of a sore throat.
- Rapid Antigen Detection Test: This helps identify bacterial infections like strep throat.
- Throat Culture: This test determines whether the infection is caused by a virus, bacteria, or fungus.
These tests clarify whether the sore throat is normal or a sign of a serious illness.
Do Not Be Negligent
People often dismiss a sore throat as a minor issue and ignore it. However, if it persists for a long time and is accompanied by other symptoms, it should not be taken lightly. It is essential to consult an ENT specialist promptly to identify the underlying cause and initiate the correct treatment.
