COVID-19, a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, often presents with a range of symptoms, and throat discomfort is a common manifestation for many. This particular symptom, often referred to as “COVID throat,” can vary in sensation and intensity. Understanding its characteristics, how it compares to other sore throats, and management strategies provides clarity.
Understanding “COVID Throat” Symptoms
A sore throat linked to COVID-19 can manifest in various ways, ranging from a mild irritation to significant pain. Many individuals describe the sensation as scratchy, dry, or raw in the throat. For some, it can feel like a burning sensation, or even a severe, “razor blade-like” pain. The throat may also appear red, and swallowing or talking can become uncomfortable.
This symptom can emerge early in the course of the infection and, in some instances, might be the primary initial complaint. Severity varies; some describe it as the most painful sore throat they’ve experienced, while others find it similar to a common cold. Inflammation and irritation of throat tissues, caused by the virus replicating in the upper respiratory tract, contribute to these sensations.
How It Differs from Other Sore Throats
Distinguishing a COVID-19 sore throat from those caused by other common illnesses like the cold, flu, or strep throat can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms. A sore throat from COVID-19 is viral, similar to a common cold, and often accompanies other respiratory symptoms. These can include cough, runny nose, congestion, fatigue, headache, and muscle aches.
A notable distinguishing factor for COVID-19 was the new loss of taste or smell, which is less common with other respiratory infections. Strep throat, a bacterial infection, presents with sudden sore throat, pain when swallowing, and often includes white patches on the tonsils, swollen lymph nodes, and a fever, but usually without a cough or runny nose. While flu symptoms like fever, body aches, and cough can be similar to COVID-19, flu symptoms appear more suddenly, whereas COVID-19 symptoms develop more gradually. Allergies can cause an itchy throat, sneezing, or watery eyes, but not fever or body aches.
Managing Discomfort and When to Seek Medical Attention
Relieving the discomfort of a COVID-related sore throat often involves several home-based strategies. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, warm teas, or broths, helps soothe the throat. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen effectively reduce pain and inflammation.
Gargling with salt water also provides relief, easing pain and reducing inflammation. Throat lozenges, sprays, and humidifiers further alleviate dryness and irritation by numbing the area or adding moisture to the air. For individuals at higher risk of severe illness, antiviral treatments can reduce symptom severity and duration if started early.
It is important to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or if new, more concerning issues arise. Individuals should consult a healthcare provider if they experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, or an inability to stay awake. Severe throat pain that prevents swallowing or a fever that persists despite home remedies also warrants medical evaluation.
Typical Duration and Recovery
The duration of a sore throat caused by COVID-19 varies, but it resolves within a few days to about a week. Many experience improvement in two to three days, with most cases not exceeding five days. However, for some, the sore throat can persist for up to two weeks.
The discomfort often intensifies during the initial days of the infection before gradually subsiding. While the sore throat eases as the infection clears, a mild irritation can linger even after other symptoms have resolved. Recovery involves the gradual reduction of pain and other associated symptoms as the body overcomes the viral infection.