Pollen can cause a sore throat, a common symptom for individuals with seasonal allergies. When pollen counts are high, particularly in spring, summer, and fall, sensitive individuals may experience a scratchy or irritated throat. This discomfort indicates the immune system is reacting to pollen.
How Pollen Affects Your Throat
When pollen enters the body, the immune system identifies it as a threat. In response, the body produces antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). These IgE antibodies attach to immune cells like mast cells and basophils, which are abundant in the respiratory system. Upon subsequent pollen exposure, these primed mast cells release histamine and other inflammatory mediators.
Histamine causes inflammation and increased mucus production in the nasal passages and sinuses. This leads to swelling and irritation, and excess mucus often drains down the back of the throat as post-nasal drip. This constant trickle can cause a tickling, scratchy, or sore sensation in the throat, sometimes accompanied by a persistent cough as the body attempts to clear the irritation.
Other Common Pollen Allergy Symptoms
A sore throat caused by pollen often appears alongside other common allergy symptoms. Many individuals experience sneezing, triggered by histamine activating nerves in the nose. A runny nose, characterized by clear, thin nasal discharge, results from stimulated mucus glands producing excess fluid.
Nasal congestion, or a stuffy nose, occurs due to inflammation and swelling of the nasal cavity lining. Itchy and watery eyes are common, caused by histamine-induced irritation and inflammation of the conjunctiva. Some people may also experience an itchy nose, ears, or palate. Coughing, often non-productive, can arise from irritation caused by post-nasal drip.
Managing Pollen-Related Throat Discomfort
To alleviate a sore throat from pollen, several approaches can provide relief. Gargling with warm salt water can soothe the throat, and drinking warm liquids like tea or soup offers comfort. Lozenges containing menthol or honey may provide temporary relief from irritation. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also beneficial, as dryness can worsen throat discomfort.
Over-the-counter allergy medications can effectively reduce overall allergy symptoms, lessening throat irritation. Antihistamines, available in pills, dissolvable tablets, or nasal sprays, reduce the body’s histamine production, easing sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Corticosteroid nasal sprays reduce inflammation in the nose and block allergic reactions, offering relief for congestion and eye symptoms. Minimizing pollen exposure by staying indoors when pollen counts are high, especially after rainfall, can also help. If symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by a fever, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable.