Burning throat is a sign of an underlying health problem rather than a disease in itself. This uncomfortable feeling occurs as a result of irritation and damage to the throat. The burning sensation felt in the throat usually occurs due to inflammation or irritation in this area.
There may be many underlying causes of throat burning. With the treatment of these disorders, the burning sensation is greatly reduced or disappears. The burning sensation is often concentrated in the middle part of the throat and may become more pronounced when swallowing. Therefore, “what should I do for a burning throat?” It is important for individuals who ask, to be careful, considering the underlying disorders, and to seek expert help when necessary.
What causes burning throat?
In order for a burning sensation in the throat to occur, the mucosa tissue covering the oral cavity, nasal and pharynx areas must be inflamed. In this context, various health problems that can damage these areas and cause inflammatory reactions may cause the complaint of burning throat. Here are some diseases that accompany burning throat:
- Cold and flu: Viral infections; It causes a burning sensation in the throat along with cough and runny nose.
- Postnasal drip: Constant dripping of mucus can irritate the throat and cause burning.
- Sore throat: Bacterial infections; It is transmitted through coughing or sneezing, causing a burning sensation in the throat. Antibiotics or painkillers may be required for treatment under the supervision of a doctor.
- Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils can cause difficulty swallowing and burning in the throat.
- Kissing disease (Mononucleosis): An infection transmitted through saliva; It causes sore throat and burning sensation.
- Burning mouth syndrome: Burning sensation in the mouth and throat; It may be caused by nerve problems or dry mouth.
- Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus; It may cause burning in the throat and difficulty swallowing.
- Pharyngitis: Inflammation of the throat; It is accompanied by a burning sensation.
- Pneumonia: Lung infection; It may cause a burning sensation in the throat.
- Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchi; It may cause discomfort in the throat.
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD): Stomach acid leaking into the esophagus; It may cause a burning sensation in the throat.
- Sinusitis: Sinus inflammation can cause a burning sensation in the throat.
- Allergic reactions: May cause throat irritation.
- Larynx cancer (rare): A serious condition that can cause a burning sensation in the throat.
What is good for a burning throat?
Here are practical methods that you can apply at home, without using medication, to treat a burning throat:
- Herbal teas: Drinking herbal teas such as chamomile, ginger, green tea, mint tea, linden and echinacea.
- Fluid consumption: Drink plenty of water to soften the throat.
- Hot mixtures: Prepare and drink a mixture of hot water, honey and lemon.
- Gargle: Gargling with salt water.
- Throat lozenge: Relieve discomfort by using throat lozenges.
- Avoiding extremely hot and cold drinks: Do not consume extremely hot or cold drinks.
- Reflux management: If there is inflammation caused by reflux, switching to reflux-friendly eating habits.
- Keeping warm: Keeping the throat area warm.
- Nutritional choices: Staying away from spicy and fatty foods.
- Avoiding tobacco products: Not using cigarettes and tobacco products.
- Providing a humid environment: Using a steam machine or humidifying the air by avoiding dry environments.
These simple methods can help relieve a burning throat.
How to relieve burning throat?
Although a sore throat is a discomfort that can usually be relieved with simple home treatments, in some cases it may be necessary to seek professional medical help. It is important to see a doctor, especially if your symptoms are severe or persist for a long time, or if you experience the following symptoms.
If throat inflammation occurs due to various diseases, appropriate treatment methods may be needed. For example, in case of bacterial infections, antibiotic treatment is applied; For viral infections, antiviral drugs and special treatment methods for symptoms may be preferred.