A sore throat describes a scratchy, painful feeling in the back of your throat. Many factors can cause this discomfort, including viral and bacterial infections, or even allergies. When experiencing a sore throat, a common question arises regarding whether chewing gum might worsen the irritation.
Chewing Gum’s Effect on Sore Throats
Chewing gum typically does not worsen a sore throat. The act of chewing stimulates saliva production, which can lead to increased moisture in the throat. This increased moisture is often perceived to offer temporary comfort by lubricating the irritated throat lining. However, a large randomized controlled trial found that chewing gum, including varieties with xylitol, did not significantly alleviate sore throat symptoms.
How Chewing Gum Influences Sore Throat Symptoms
The primary physiological effect of chewing gum is the increased production of saliva. Saliva helps to keep the throat moist, which can reduce the feeling of dryness and scratchiness associated with a sore throat. It also helps wash away irritants or pathogens from the throat’s surface. Despite these plausible mechanisms, clinical studies have not consistently demonstrated that this increased saliva flow from chewing gum translates into significant symptom improvement.
Beyond lubrication, the rhythmic action of chewing can serve as a distraction from the discomfort of a sore throat. Some chewing gums contain ingredients like menthol or eucalyptus, which provide a cooling or numbing sensation. This sensation can offer temporary relief from pain, as menthol stimulates nerve endings that detect cold, and continued exposure can reduce pain sensitivity. However, some sources suggest that excessive menthol can irritate the throat, potentially worsening symptoms in sensitive individuals.
While chewing gum is generally safe, certain aspects can be less helpful. Prolonged chewing can lead to jaw fatigue, adding another layer of discomfort. Additionally, some very strong or acidic flavors in gum, such as certain citrus varieties, could potentially irritate an already sensitive throat lining. Sugar alcohols used as sweeteners in sugar-free gums, like sorbitol or xylitol, can cause digestive issues such as bloating or diarrhea if consumed in large quantities.
Selecting the Right Gum for Sore Throats
When choosing chewing gum for a sore throat, opting for sugar-free varieties is generally advisable. Sugar-free gum helps prevent potential dental issues, especially if chewed frequently, as sugar contributes to tooth decay.
Flavors that are mild and soothing, such as spearmint or certain fruit flavors that are not overly acidic, are often preferred. Strong, highly acidic, or very spicy flavors should be avoided, as they might cause further irritation to a sensitive throat. Chewing gum should be used in moderation, and if any discomfort, jaw pain, or increased irritation occurs, it is recommended to stop.