A sore throat is a common symptom of COVID-19, leading many to wonder if antibiotics can help. However, antibiotics are generally not the appropriate treatment for a COVID-19 sore throat. This is due to the fundamental differences between the pathogens antibiotics target and the virus that causes COVID-19.
Understanding Sore Throats in COVID-19
COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Sore throats are a frequent symptom, ranging from mild discomfort to significant pain. This symptom results from the virus infecting cells in the upper respiratory tract, including the throat and nose. The viral infection triggers an inflammatory response, leading to irritation, redness, and swelling of throat tissues as the immune system fights the virus. A sore throat can appear with other common COVID-19 symptoms like cough, fever, and fatigue, or occasionally be the sole symptom.
Why Antibiotics Are Not the Answer
Antibiotics are medications developed to treat infections caused by bacteria. They function by targeting structures and processes unique to bacterial cells, such as their cell walls, mechanisms for protein production, or DNA replication. These drugs either kill bacteria directly or stop them from multiplying, allowing the body’s immune system to clear the infection.
Viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, are fundamentally different from bacteria. Viruses lack the cellular machinery that antibiotics target. Instead, viruses invade host cells and hijack the host’s cellular machinery to replicate themselves. Because of this, antibiotics have no target to act upon and are therefore ineffective against viral infections like COVID-19.
Using antibiotics unnecessarily carries significant risks. A primary concern is the contribution to antibiotic resistance, where bacteria evolve and become resistant to the drugs designed to kill them. When antibiotics are used inappropriately, sensitive bacteria are eliminated, but resistant bacteria can survive, reproduce, and spread, making future bacterial infections harder to treat. Furthermore, antibiotics can cause side effects, including digestive issues like diarrhea, or more serious adverse reactions or secondary infections such as Clostridioides difficile.
Effective Relief for a COVID Sore Throat
Since antibiotics are not effective against viral infections like COVID-19, treatment for a sore throat focuses on managing symptoms and supporting recovery. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce throat pain and inflammation. Throat lozenges, cough drops, or hard candies can also provide soothing relief by increasing saliva production, which helps keep the throat moist.
Gargling with warm salt water can help alleviate discomfort and reduce irritation in the throat. Drinking warm liquids like tea with honey or broth can soothe the throat and maintain hydration. Using a humidifier or taking a steamy shower can also add moisture to the air, which may help ease a dry, scratchy throat. Resting adequately helps the body fight the infection.
While most COVID-19 sore throats resolve as the infection clears, it is important to monitor symptoms and seek medical advice if they worsen or if new concerns arise. Medical attention is recommended if there is persistent chest pain or pressure, difficulty breathing, new confusion, an inability to wake or stay awake, or if lips or face appear pale, grey, or blue. Additionally, if symptoms persist for longer than 10 to 14 days, or if a fever becomes higher or worsens after several days of illness, it could indicate a secondary bacterial infection, which would then warrant medical evaluation for potential antibiotic treatment.