Can allergies cause sore throat?

Can Allergies Cause a Sore Throat?

Allergies—especially allergic rhinitis (hay fever)—are a common cause of throat irritation. When your immune system overreacts to harmless substances like pollen, dust mites or pet dander, it triggers inflammation in the nasal passages. That inflammation can affect the back of the throat, leading to a scratchy or sore feeling. Below, we explain how this happens, how to tell it apart from an infection, and practical steps to find relief.

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How Allergies Lead to a Sore Throat

1. Postnasal Drip
   • Allergic inflammation ramps up mucus production in your nose and sinuses.
   • Excess mucus drips down the back of your throat, irritating the lining.
   • You may feel constant clearing, tickling or rawness.

2. Throat Mucosal Inflammation
   • The same immune cells causing nasal swelling can affect the oropharynx.
   • Histamine and other mediators make throat tissues red, swollen and sensitive.

3. Chronic Irritation
   • Repeated allergy flare-ups keep the throat in a state of low-grade inflammation.
   • Over weeks, this can feel like a persistent “sore throat” even without infection.

4. Associated Nasal Polyps or Sinusitis
   • According to the European Position Paper on Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyps 2020, chronic sinus inflammation may coexist with nasal polyps.
   • Blocked sinuses worsen postnasal drip and throat irritation.

5. Allergic Laryngitis (Less Common)
   • Allergens can trigger swelling of the vocal cords and larynx.
   • Symptoms include hoarseness and throat discomfort.

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Distinguishing Allergy-Related Sore Throat from Infection

Feature	Allergy-Related	Viral/Bacterial Infection
Onset	Gradual, often linked to seasons or exposures	Sudden, with fever and chills
Nasal Discharge	Clear, watery	Yellow/green (more typical)
Itchy Eyes/Nose	Common	Rare
Fever	Uncommon	Often present
Throat Appearance	Redness without pus or exudate	Swelling with white patches
Duration	Persists with ongoing exposure	Usually resolves in 5–10 days

If you’re unsure, consider doing a free, online symptom check for to help pinpoint the cause.

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Effective Strategies for Relief

1. Allergen Avoidance

Identify and reduce exposure to triggers.

• Keep windows closed during high‐pollen days.
• Use allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses.
• Wash bedding weekly in hot water.
• Vacuum with a HEPA filter.

2. Nasal Saline Irrigation

Gentle rinsing clears mucus and allergens.

• Use a neti pot or squeeze bottle with sterile saline solution.
• Perform twice daily during peak allergy season.
• Helps reduce postnasal drip and throat irritation.

3. Intranasal Corticosteroids

First-line treatment per ARIA guidelines (2016 update).

• Fluticasone, budesonide or mometasone sprays reduce inflammation.
• Use daily for best results; effects build over several days.
• Side effects: minor nosebleeds or dryness.

4. Oral Antihistamines

Block histamine—key allergy mediator.

• Second-generation options (cetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine) cause less drowsiness.
• Take as directed during allergy season or year-round for perennial allergies.

5. Short-Term Decongestants

Relieve nasal congestion and pressure.

• Phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine (oral) for up to 5 days.
• Avoid prolonged use of topical nasal decongestant sprays (rebound congestion).

6. Throat Lozenges and Hydration

Soothing measures complement allergy treatments.

• Menthol or honey-based lozenges can temporarily relieve soreness.
• Sip warm teas or water throughout the day.
• Use a cool-mist humidifier to keep airways moist.

7. Allergy Immunotherapy

Long-term reduction of allergic sensitivity.

• Subcutaneous (injections) or sublingual (drops/tablets).
• Requires evaluation by an allergy specialist.
• Can decrease severity of nasal and throat symptoms over years.

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When to Seek Medical Advice

Allergic sore throat is often manageable at home, but see a doctor if you experience:

• High fever (over 38.5 °C/101.5 °F)
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Severe throat pain with white patches or pus
• Swelling of face, lips or tongue
• Symptoms lasting more than 2 weeks despite treatment
• Any sudden, severe or life-threatening signs

These may signal an infection or a more serious condition that requires prompt medical attention.

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Key Takeaways

• Allergies frequently cause a sore, scratchy throat via postnasal drip and inflammation.
• Look for accompanying signs like itchy eyes, clear discharge and seasonal patterns.
• First-line treatments include allergen avoidance, nasal irrigation, intranasal steroids and non-sedating antihistamines.
• Complementary remedies (lozenges, hydration, humidifiers) ease discomfort.
• For persistent or severe throat pain, consider a free, online symptom check for and speak to a doctor about any potentially serious or life-threatening concerns.