A dry throat can be a symptom associated with COVID-19, often linked to a sore throat or dry mouth. It can arise directly from the viral infection or indirectly from other symptoms like nasal congestion, which may lead to breathing through the mouth. This sensation is not exclusive to COVID-19 and can stem from numerous other common factors, making it important to consider the full range of potential causes.
Recognizing COVID-19 Symptoms
COVID-19 can manifest with a wide array of symptoms, varying in severity and presentation among individuals. Common indicators include fever or chills, a new continuous cough, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headaches, and a loss of taste or smell.
Other frequently reported symptoms include a sore throat, nasal congestion, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. A dry throat sensation is often linked to a sore throat, where the throat may feel scratchy or painful, especially when swallowing. Researchers believe the virus can affect salivary glands, leading to reduced saliva production and a sensation of dry mouth or throat. Symptoms can vary with different viral variants, with newer strains sometimes presenting more like a common cold.
Common Causes of Dry Throat
A dry throat is a common, non-specific symptom that can result from various everyday conditions, not solely infectious diseases. Dehydration, where the body lacks sufficient fluids to maintain moist mucous membranes, is a frequent cause. Environmental factors, such as dry air from heating or air conditioning, can also reduce moisture in the throat.
Sleeping with an open mouth is another common reason for a dry throat. Allergies can cause postnasal drip, where excess mucus irritates the throat, leading to dryness or scratchiness. The common cold and flu can also cause a dry throat alongside other respiratory symptoms.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
When to seek medical advice for a dry throat depends on accompanying symptoms and their progression. If a dry throat is combined with other potential COVID-19 symptoms like fever, persistent cough, shortness of breath, or loss of taste or smell, get tested for COVID-19. Testing is recommended immediately if symptoms are present, and if the initial rapid antigen test is negative, repeating the test after 48 hours is suggested to confirm results.
Contact a healthcare professional if your dry throat persists for more than a week, worsens significantly, or is accompanied by severe symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, wheezing, chest pain, or a high fever. Individuals with underlying health conditions or those who have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 should seek guidance if they develop symptoms.