A lingering sore throat can make even simple things—like eating, talking or enjoying life—feel like a struggle. Let’s take a look at three common culprits of a persistent or frequently recurring sore throat and what you can do to find relief.
1. Acid Reflux (GERD)
One of the most common offenders when it comes to a stubborn sore throat is gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. It happens when stomach acid sneaks back up into the esophagus. If the acid travels all the way up to the throat, burning, soreness and that awful “lump in the throat” feeling are common.
To help minimize GERD, try a few of the following:
- Avoid acidic foods, caffeine and spicy dishes
- Eat smaller meals, and don’t lie down immediately after eating
- Take occasional antacids when GERD is severe
- Consult an ENT specialist for medical or surgical treatments
2. Postnasal Drip
Postnasal drip occurs when excess mucus from your sinuses trickles down the back of your throat, leading to irritation, coughing and soreness. Allergies, sinus infections or GERD often trigger it. Most patients describe postnasal drip as a constant urge to clear your throat or a lingering cough or tickle that doesn’t seem to go away.
To manage postnasal drip, try the following:
- Treat the root cause, whether it’s allergies, a sinus infection, acid reflux or other common causes
- Stay hydrated to keep mucus thin and easier to clear
- Visit a specialist if symptoms persist—they can help identify and treat the underlying issue
3. Stubborn Cold Symptoms
Sometimes, what starts as a simple cold can leave you with a sore throat that overstays its welcome. The common cold typically clears up in about 7-10 days, but if symptoms like coughing or postnasal drip persist, so can the throat pain.
A few ways to care for your lingering sore throat include:
- Use throat lozenges or cough drops to keep your throat moist
- Run a humidifier and sip warm drinks to soothe irritation
- If symptoms stick around longer than two weeks, see your provider
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Chronic Sore Throat
A sore throat that won’t go away could be your body’s way of telling you something bigger is going on. Ignoring it may allow an underlying condition—like acid reflux, allergies or infections—to worsen over time.
If your sore throat has become a lingering problem, contact Palmetto ENT & Allergy for an appointment with one of our trusted specialists.