Struggling With a Sore Throat? Here’s What You Need to Know
Whether it’s caused by seasonal allergies, a viral infection, dry air, or postnasal drip, sore throats are one of the most common symptoms people experience throughout the year. At ENT and Allergy Associates, our board-certified otolaryngologists and allergists are here to help you understand why your throat hurts—and what to do about it.
Common Causes of a Sore Throat
Before diving into remedies, it's important to understand the underlying causes of a sore throat. These include:
- Viral infections (like the common cold, flu, or COVID-19)
- Bacterial infections (such as strep throat)
- Allergies (including seasonal pollen and dust mites)
- Postnasal drip
- Dry indoor air
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Smoking or exposure to irritants
- Overuse of the voice
Identifying the root cause is the first step to finding the right sore throat treatment.
Fast and Effective Sore Throat Remedies
Here are some doctor-recommended sore throat remedies that can help ease your discomfort and support healing:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids helps keep your throat moist and reduces inflammation. Try:
- Warm teas with honey and lemon
- Broth-based soups
- Room temperature water (cold water can irritate some sore throats)
2. Use a Humidifier
Dry air—especially in the winter—can make a sore throat worse. Running a humidifier adds moisture to the air and soothes dry throat symptoms.
3. Gargle With Salt Water
A classic home remedy for sore throats, gargling with warm salt water helps reduce swelling and kills bacteria. Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds, 2–3 times per day.
4. Try Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
- Throat lozenges and sprays can provide temporary relief
- Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen help reduce inflammation
- Decongestants can relieve postnasal drip that may be causing your sore throat
5. Avoid Irritants
Smoke, strong cleaning products, and allergens can all worsen a sore throat. If you’re dealing with allergy-induced throat irritation, consult an allergist at ENT and Allergy Associates to develop a customized allergy treatment plan.
6. Rest Your Voice
If your sore throat is caused by overuse or vocal strain, give your vocal cords a break. Speak softly, avoid yelling, and stay hydrated to allow healing.
7. Eat Soothing Foods
Certain foods can help coat and calm your throat, such as:
- Warm oatmeal
- Soft fruits like bananas or applesauce
- Ice cream or popsicles (especially for kids with sore throats)
- Herbal teas with slippery elm or marshmallow root (both have throat-soothing properties)
When to See a Specialist for a Sore Throat
If your sore throat symptoms last more than a few days, worsen, or are accompanied by a high fever, rash, or difficulty swallowing, it’s time to consult an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) doctor.
At ENT and Allergy Associates, our team of highly trained otolaryngologists and allergy specialists can determine the exact cause of your sore throat and recommend targeted treatment—whether it’s antibiotics for strep throat, allergy testing, or reflux management.
Specialized Sore Throat Treatment at ENT and Allergy Associates
We treat all types of sore throat issues, including:
- Chronic sore throat
- Recurrent tonsillitis
- Throat pain from GERD
- Allergy-related throat irritation
- Voice and swallowing disorders
With over 60 locations across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania our expert physicians are ready to help you feel better, faster.
Book an Appointment Today
Don’t let a sore throat linger. Schedule an appointment with a trusted ENT specialist at ENT and Allergy Associates to receive expert care and lasting relief.
- Find a location near you: https://www.entandallergy.com/locations/
- Book Online: https://www.entandallergy.com/book-an-appointment/
- Call to book: 1-855-ENTA-DOC
ENT and Allergy Associates (ENTA) is the premier otolaryngology and allergy practice in the region, offering comprehensive care in Adult and Pediatric Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Allergy, Asthma, Audiology, Sleep Medicine, Balance Disorders, Voice and Swallowing Disorders, Sinus and Skull Base Surgery, Thyroid and Parathyroid Disorders, Head and Neck Surgery, Facial Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery, and Hearing Aids.
With convenient office locations throughout New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, ENT and Allergy Associates is proud to provide expert, compassionate care in:
- New Jersey – Bergen, Camden, Burlington, Monmouth, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, Somerset Counties, and more.
- New York – The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island, Queens, Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk Counties), and Westchester County.
- Pennsylvania – Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County.
Whether you're seeking relief from seasonal allergies, expert surgical consultation, or help managing chronic ENT conditions, our board-certified physicians and specialized care teams are here to help.
Find a convenient ENT and Allergy Associates location near you using our location search tool or call today to schedule an appointment.