Worried About COVID? Soothe Your Sore Throat at Home

With COVID-19 and its new variant Omicron in full swing, more and more folks are worried about going to the doctor when experiencing symptoms such as sore throat. This is doubly true given that all the experts are saying the new variant spreads much more readily than the original COVID-19 strain and the Delta strain of the virus. Luckily, there is plenty you can do at home to soothe your sore throat.

First Things First: Could It Be COVID?

Yes, a sore throat can be a symptom of COVID. However, it is a rare occurrence for a sore throat to be the first sign of the virus. Typically, a sore throat occurs secondary to any illness that causes a runny nose or congestion. If you have not experienced COVID’s main symptoms (i.e., a cough, shortness of breath, and fever), then you likely don’t have COVID. Nonetheless, it never hurts to call your doctor if you have a suspicion that you have been exposed to the virus or if you have been around someone who has it. Testing for COVID is relatively worry-free and safe—there are many places offering drive-through testing, such as local pharmacies and clinics.

That being said, a look at other reasons you may have a sore throat and what you can do to help treat it at home can help.

• Seasonal allergies can cause sinus drainage, and that can result in a sore throat. While an ENT might address the problem with allergy shots and possibly antihistamines or topical sprays, at home you can try sipping on hot honey lemon tea or gargling with warm saltwater. Sucking on throat lozenges may also help.
• Acid reflux. Acid from your stomach can cause your throat to be sore. While acid reducers bought over the counter can help, you can also make changes in your diet, such as avoiding foods that are acidic, greasy, or spicy. These are the most common causes of acid reflux. Also, try to avoid eating in the evenings before bed.
• Humidity issues. If you sleep in a dry environment, then the air itself may be causing your throat to be sore. A humidifier left running overnight may help.

Should You Call Your Doctor?

While treating your sore throat at home is often possible, that’s not always the case. Call your doctor if your sore throat:

• Lingers despite treatment.
• Causes so much pain that it interferes with your normal functioning.
• Is accompanied by weight loss.
• Comes with changes to your voice.
• Makes it difficult for you to swallow.
• Is accompanied by coughing up blood.

If you do have to go out to see your doctor in person for an evaluation of your sore throat, just follow recommended protocols regarding COVID-19 to keep yourself safe. It is likely that your doctor has their own protocols in place for their office, such as wearing a mask. Many doctors are still doing phone or video consultations due to the Omicron variant, but with a sore throat, your doctor may want to get a culture to rule out strep throat or other potential causes.