Published on: 7/9/2025
What might cause soreness on only one side of the throat?
Soreness on one side of the throat can be caused by conditions such as herpes zoster pharyngitis or a peritonsillar abscess.
Explanation
Soreness on only one side of the throat can happen for a few reasons. One possible cause is herpes zoster pharyngitis, which is a viral infection that can affect the throat. This condition can lead to pain and discomfort on one side as seen in a case study where the virus affected the pharynx.
Another reason for one-sided throat pain could be a peritonsillar abscess. This is a collection of pus near the tonsils and is often caused by bacterial infection. It usually presents with a sore throat on one side, difficulty swallowing, and sometimes fever.
It's important to note that these conditions can be serious and might need medical attention. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, it's a good idea to consult a healthcare provider.
(References)
- Sone M, Mizokami D, Takihata S, Shiotani A, & Araki K. (2024). A Case of Herpes Zoster Pharyngitis. Cureus, 38322054.
- Tang SC, Jeng JS, Liu HM, & Yip PK. (2001). Isolated vagus nerve palsy probably associated with .... Acta neurologica Scandinavica, 11551239.
- Klug TE. (2017). Peritonsillar abscess: clinical aspects of microbiology, risk .... Danish medical journal, 28260599.
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