A sore throat, characterized by discomfort or pain, is a common ailment. While often associated with infections like the common cold or flu, various factors can contribute to throat irritation. One less commonly considered cause is chewing gum. This raises the question of how chewing gum might lead to throat soreness.
How Chewing Gum Can Directly Affect Your Throat
Prolonged chewing can strain jaw muscles, and this strain may extend to the neck and throat. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and its surrounding muscles are connected to the throat. Overuse from continuous chewing can lead to fatigue and soreness, manifesting as throat discomfort.
While chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps moisten the mouth and throat, certain scenarios can have the opposite effect. If an individual breathes through their mouth while chewing or does not maintain adequate hydration, the throat can become dry. A dry throat can lead to irritation and a scratchy sensation.
The physical act of chewing can cause minor irritation or abrasions in the mouth or throat. This can occur if gum pieces have sharp edges or if the chewing motion is aggressive, leading to friction. Additionally, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to specific ingredients in chewing gum. These ingredients can include artificial sweeteners, flavorings, or components of the gum base. Such reactions can cause throat irritation, swelling, or an itchy sensation.
Underlying Conditions and Chewing Gum
Chewing gum can interact with or worsen pre-existing health conditions, leading to a sore throat. One such condition is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. While chewing sugar-free gum after meals can help reduce acid reflux by increasing saliva production and promoting swallowing, there are nuances. However, chewing gum can also lead to increased air swallowing, which might contribute to bloating and pressure on the stomach, potentially worsening reflux. Mint-flavored gums, in particular, may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid to escape more easily.
An already irritated throat, from allergies, post-nasal drip, or a cold, can become more symptomatic with chewing gum use. The added strain on throat muscles or any drying effect from chewing can worsen existing irritation. Even if gum does not directly cause the initial irritation, it can prevent the throat from healing or alleviate discomfort.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are another condition chewing gum can aggravate. TMJ disorders involve pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles controlling jaw movement. Chewing gum can put excessive strain on the TMJ and surrounding muscles, leading to pain that can radiate to the ears and throat, mimicking a sore throat. This is true for individuals with pre-existing TMJ issues, as the repetitive motion can intensify muscle tension and contribute to jaw pain.
What to Do if Gum Causes Soreness
If you suspect chewing gum is contributing to your sore throat, discontinue its use for a period. Observing whether your symptoms improve after stopping gum can help identify a link. Many sore throats, including those caused by irritation, often resolve on their own within a few days.
Maintaining hydration is important for throat health, especially if dry mouth is a factor. Drinking plenty of water can lubricate the throat and counteract any drying effects. Simple home remedies can provide symptomatic relief. Gargling with warm salt water can soothe the throat and help reduce inflammation. Sucking on sugar-free lozenges or hard candies can also stimulate saliva flow, offering temporary comfort.
While most sore throats are not serious, it is important to know when to seek medical attention. Consult a healthcare professional if your sore throat is severe, lasts longer than a few days, or worsens. Additional symptoms warranting a doctor’s visit include a fever higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, difficulty swallowing or breathing, a rash, joint pain, or swollen lymph nodes. These could indicate a more serious underlying issue requiring medical diagnosis and treatment.