Is your sore throat caused by an allergy or a cold? Tips for prevention, treatment

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. It’s 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 (or however long it is where you live).

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.

If a person develops a sore throat and the above symptoms after eating raw fruits and vegetables, he must pay a visit to a knowledgeable healthcare provider. (Related: Natural remedies for allergies.)

How to treat sore throats caused by allergies

The allergy’s severity determines the treatment of a patient. People may treat themselves if they have mild symptoms, but they must consult a healthcare provider if the issues get worse.

Many patients take antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal steroid sprays. But these over-the-counter drugs have serious side effects.

A healthcare provider may recommend immunotherapy. In this treatment, the patient undergoes increasing exposure to higher amounts of the allergen.

Eventually, the person becomes less sensitive to the substance that triggers his allergy. He experiences fewer attacks of reduced intensity.

Patients may also avail of alternative therapies. Acupuncture sessions, consuming probiotic foods and supplements, irrigating the nasal passage with a saline solution, and taking herbal remedies may alleviate the symptoms of allergy and sore throat.

Further, people may manage the symptoms of a sore throat through the use of home remedies. Make ice chips or freeze fruit juices, and suck on the treats to reduce the pain.

Brew a cup of hot herbal tea and add raw honey, which is both tasty and helps fight infections. Or, make a saline solution and rinse your throat with it.

How to prevent allergy attacks

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. To prevent sore throats and other symptoms of upper respiratory allergies, avoid allergens as much as possible.

During pollen season, shut the windows and keep them closed. Remain indoors when the pollen count goes up.

If there is a need to go outside, wear sunglasses to protect the eyes from pollen. Upon returning indoors, take a shower immediately and change clothes.

Put dust-proof covers on bedding and furniture. These sheets decrease exposure to dust mites that may cause allergy attacks.

Keep mold out of indoor areas. Run a dehumidifier and clean bathrooms and kitchens regularly.

Animals often shed dander or tiny bits of their skin. Always wash your hands after handling any furry or feathered animals. Pet owners must also bathe their pets regularly.

Read more tips on preventing sore throat and allergies at Prevention.news.

Sources include:

MedicalnewsToday.com

NewsInHealth.NIH.gov