Do You Have Frequent Sore Throats? Here’s What They Might Mean

Many people get a sore throat at least once a year due to acute infections, environmental factors, and/or chronic health issues. Most improve with rest and at-home treatments, but in some cases, sore throats become persistent, interfering with sleep, speech, and daily comfort. 

At Russak Personalized Medicine, our team specializes in sore throat treatment. Here, we explain common causes of frequent sore throats and how we can help you feel better.

In the old days, when folks got a sore throat, we told them to take 2 Aspirin and call me in the morning.  Now, we recommend you come in. Why? Because now we have an in-house machine that can check for one bacteria and 4 different viruses and tell you what germ you have in 15 minutes. 

4 common causes of frequent sore throats

Recurrent sore throats happen for various reasons, including:

1. Repeated viral or bacterial infections

Viral and bacterial respiratory infections — like the cold, flu, and strep throat — commonly cause sore throats. When these germs enter your body through your nose or mouth, they can settle in your throat, irritating the lining and surrounding tissues.

Anyone can experience repeat infections, but they’re especially common among parents, school teachers, and medical professionals who are regularly exposed to germs.

2. Allergies or postnasal drip

About 20% of people with allergies report a sore throat as a primary symptom. Like infections, allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and air pollutants can irritate your throat and cause inflammation.

It’s not always easy to identify the cause of repeated sore throats, but if your symptoms occur alongside itchy, watery eyes, a runny nose, or postnasal drip (mucus running down the back of your throat), allergies could be the culprit.

3. Acid reflux

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common digestive issue wherein stomach acid flows back into your esophagus, especially when lying down or after eating. This acid can irritate your esophageal lining — and, in some cases, reach the back of the throat — causing inflammation and soreness.

GERD-related sore throats often occur after lying down for a nap or a night of rest. You might also notice a bitter taste in your mouth and frequent heartburn.

4. Environmental triggers

Sometimes, frequent sore throats are caused by external factors. For example, smoking or working around certain chemicals and fumes can irritate the lining of your throat and lead to soreness or pain when swallowing. Similarly, snoring or sleeping with your mouth open can dry out your throat and cause inflammation. 

We can determine the cause of your frequent sore throats

Most sore throats improve with simple lifestyle changes, like staying hydrated, washing your hands regularly, and avoiding irritants. However, if you have a persistent sore throat that affects your quality of life, treatment is available. Recurrent sore throats are often linked to medical conditions like allergies and acid reflux. We can help you manage these issues and keep your throat comfortable and pain-free.

To schedule primary care for frequent sore throats,  contact us today. Call our office in Greenwood Village, Colorado, or book your visit online. We offer in-person and telehealth visits.

Author

Floyd Russak Floyd Russak grew up in Denver and graduated from Cherry Creek High School in 1973. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Northwestern U. in Chicago studying Music & Biology. He then went on to receive his M.D. degree at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., where he served on the team that treated President Reagan in 1981. Dr. Russak’s internship and residency training were completed at Harvard Medical School in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. Dr. Russak then served on the Faculty of Harvard Medical School for 12 years and was the founder of Somerville Family Health, a 10-physician, 4-office multi-specialty practice in Boston, which he sold to Harvard in 1996. Dr. Russak founded and managed the Swedish SE Walk-In Center (DTC Family Health) from 1997-1999. He was Medical Director and/or Owner of East-West Health Centers, a 15-provider practice in Greenwood Village from 1999 until 2017, when he sold it to OnPoint Medical Group. He now owns and manages RPM Family Health in Denver.