Pain on one side of the throat when swallowing can be perplexing. While concerning, it often stems from common, benign conditions. Understanding potential causes helps determine relief steps and when to seek medical advice.
Understanding Common Causes
One-sided throat pain often stems from infections or irritations. Viral infections like the common cold, flu, or mononucleosis (mono) can inflame throat tissues, sometimes more prominently on one side. Mono can cause severe one-sided pain due to significant tonsil and lymph node swelling. Bacterial infections like strep throat or tonsillitis also lead to localized pain, as the infection might primarily affect one tonsil.
Post-nasal drip, where excess mucus drains down the back of the throat, frequently causes unilateral irritation, often leading to discomfort upon waking. Stomach acid reflux (GERD or LPR) can also irritate the throat lining, localizing pain to one side. Allergic reactions can also cause throat inflammation and irritation, sometimes perceived as one-sided pain.
When Pain Lingers or Worsens: Other Possibilities
When throat pain persists, intensifies, or has concerning symptoms, other conditions may be at play. A peritonsillar abscess, a pus-filled pocket near one tonsil, is a serious possibility, often complicating tonsillitis. Symptoms include severe one-sided throat pain, difficulty opening the mouth, a muffled or “hot potato” voice, and fever. This condition requires prompt medical attention.
Dental issues, like an abscessed tooth or gum infection, can refer pain to the throat on the same side. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems can also cause referred pain in the ear and throat on one side. Rarely, nerve irritation conditions like glossopharyngeal neuralgia (affecting the ninth cranial nerve) can cause sudden, severe, electric shock-like pain in the throat, tongue, or ear. A foreign object, such as a small bone, lodged in the throat can also cause sharp, localized pain.
Knowing When to Seek Medical Help
Recognize when one-sided throat pain warrants medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare professional if pain is severe and prevents swallowing liquids or saliva. Other red flag symptoms include difficulty breathing, high fever, or visible throat or neck swelling. A muffled voice, difficulty opening the mouth, or pain lasting more than a few days without improvement also warrant assessment. Unexplained weight loss or persistent hoarseness, especially in adults, are additional reasons to seek professional advice.
Simple Steps for Comfort and Recovery
For less severe cases or while awaiting medical consultation, several at-home remedies can alleviate discomfort. Staying well-hydrated with fluids like water or warm tea soothes the throat. Gargling with warm salt water can reduce pain and inflammation, also clearing irritants. Dissolve about half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water for an effective solution.
Throat lozenges or sprays with menthol or benzocaine provide temporary numbing relief. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, preventing throat dryness and irritation. Adequate rest supports healing. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, manage pain and reduce inflammation. Avoid irritants like smoking, very hot or cold foods, and acidic drinks, as these can exacerbate throat discomfort.