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How to Manage a Sore Throat From Allergies

Seasonal allergies typically occur around springtime, with trees pollinating from August until October. Grass pollen then takes over and can trigger allergic reactions from November to March. If you experience hay fever, you may be developing a runny nose, nasal congestion and sneezing, among other symptoms. Sometimes, you can even get a sore throat from allergies. Here's why this happens and what you can do about it.

How Allergies Can Cause a Sore Throat

The glands in your nose and throat make about one to two quarts of mucus every day.This mucus has many important functions, such as keeping your nose clean and moistening the air you breathe, and you usually swallow it without realising. Other times, people may notice mucus dripping down the back of their nose or pooling in their throat. This unpleasant sensation is known as postnasal drip, and it can be caused by allergies.

If you have postnasal drip, the trickle of mucus can irritate your throat and cause soreness and other symptoms, such as feeling a lump in the throat or swallowing more frequently. It may also make you feel the need to clear your throat more often.

Soothing a Sore Throat at Home

Here are several home remedies that may help soothe a sore throat from allergies.

Stay well-hydrated to help thin the mucus.

Consume more hot liquids, such as chicken soup.

Use a humidifier or inhale steam.

Prop yourself up with a few extra pillows at night, since mucus can collect in the back of your throat when you lie flat.

There are also many over-the-counter medications available, including oral decongestants and antihistamines. Nasal decongestants may also be helpful, though Harvard Medical School cautions that they shouldn't be used for more than one to two days. For help choosing the most appropriate product, talk to your doctor or a pharmacist.

While these steps can help soothe a sore throat from allergies, they won't prevent future allergy symptoms. Pollen, whether from grass, trees or ragweed, is a common culprit of seasonal allergies, so avoiding exposure to it can help. Stay indoors on dry, windy days and, if possible, keeping your doors and windows closed on days with high pollen counts. If you need to do outdoor chores, such as lawn mowing or weed pulling, wear a pollen mask.

When to Seek Medical Help

Postnasal drip can be annoying, but it usually isn't dangerous, as Harvard Medical School explains. However, there are some circumstances when you should seek medical help. See your doctor or dentist if your symptoms get worse or if they aren't relieved by home remedies. You should also see your doctor if your sore throat is accompanied by other worrying symptoms, such as an unexplained fever or bloody mucus.

While you may experience a sore throat from allergies during hay fever season, rest assured that there are many home remedies that can help to soothe your symptoms. If these home remedies aren't enough, don't hesitate to seek medical advice.

(02/06/2024)
by Colgate

More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-za/oral-health/respiratory-conditions/how-to-manage-a-sore-throat-from-allergies

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