Dealing with a lingering sore throat can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. Whether it’s a mild irritation or a persistent pain, a sore throat that won’t go away can disrupt your daily life and leave you wondering about the underlying cause. In this blog, we’ll explore some common reasons for a lingering sore throat and when it might be time to seek medical attention.
For same-day sore/strep throat treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care South Plainfield. Our expert urgent care providers are available 7 days a week to diagnose your condition and plan treatment accordingly. Simply walk-in today!
Causes of Chronic Sore Throat
Chronic pharyngitis or lingering sore throat is the development of frequent sore throat that is experienced for a long duration. It can vary based on the duration, root cause, treatment, and severity. Some of the common causes of chronic sore throat are:
1. Bacterial And Viral Infections: Bacteria are some of the leading causes of sore throat and viruses like influenza, mononucleosis, cold, and COVID-19 are the lynchpin of most persistent or lingering sore throat conditions,
2. Allergies: Allergies and their severity differ from person to person and not all lead to sore throat, but many allergens tend to cause sore throat. Allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander can trigger a sore throat for an extended period.
3. Tonsillitis: Having a sore throat is one of the symptoms of tonsillitis, an ailment that comes in the form of the inflammation of the tonsils at the back of the throat. The presence of tonsillitis most often points to the possibility of a lingering sore throat.
4. Exposure To Toxic Chemicals Or Polluted Air
Another cause of chronic sore throat is exposure to toxic chemicals such as chlorine or ammonia which can damage the mucus lining of the nose, these cause the filtering capabilities of the nose to reduce and can lead to sore throat.
When To Seek Medical Attention
While many cases of a sore throat can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies, there are instances when it’s important to seek medical attention. If your sore throat persists for more than a week or two, or is accompanied by severe pain, difficulty swallowing, or breathing difficulties, seek medical care. Additionally, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if you have a high fever, swollen lymph nodes, or if you have a history of recurrent sore throats or underlying health conditions that may increase your risk of complications.
At an urgent care center, a healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms, perform diagnostic tests if necessary, and recommend appropriate treatment to address the underlying cause of your lingering sore throat. Don’t ignore persistent throat discomfort– seeking timely medical attention can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
Get Sore Throat Treatment at AFC Urgent Care South Plainfield
Are you or someone you know dealing with a sore throat that won’t go away? Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care South Plainfield for same-day sore throat relief. Our board-certified medical providers can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and prescribe the proper treatment to aid your recovery. Appointments are never required– simply walk-in any day of the week during operating hours. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about sore throat treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (908) 222-3500.
