Experiencing pain on just one side of the throat is common. While often temporary, understanding the potential reasons behind this localized discomfort can help determine appropriate next steps.
Common Explanations for Unilateral Throat Pain
Unilateral throat pain frequently stems from infectious causes. Viral infections, such as the common cold or mononucleosis, can cause inflammation that might feel more pronounced on one side. Infectious mononucleosis, caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, can lead to significant swelling of the tonsils and lymph nodes, which may be more prominent or painful on one side of the throat.
Bacterial infections are also frequent culprits behind one-sided throat pain. Strep throat, caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, typically presents with a very sore throat, and while it often affects both sides, the pain can sometimes feel more intense on one side. Tonsillitis, an inflammation of the tonsils, can also be unilateral, with one tonsil becoming more swollen and painful than the other. A peritonsillar abscess, which is a collection of pus behind one of the tonsils, often begins with severe one-sided throat pain that rapidly worsens over hours to days.
Beyond infections, several non-infectious factors can contribute to pain localized to one side of the throat. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and throat, can irritate the pharyngeal tissues, leading to a burning sensation or soreness that might be more noticeable on one side. Allergic reactions, particularly those causing post-nasal drip, can lead to mucus accumulation and irritation down one side of the throat.
Physical factors can also play a role in unilateral throat pain. Overuse of the voice, such as from shouting or prolonged talking, can strain the muscles on one side of the larynx or pharynx, leading to localized soreness. Additionally, exposure to dry air, especially overnight, can cause one side of the throat to feel parched and irritated upon waking. Sometimes, a minor foreign body, like a small piece of food or a fish bone, can become lodged in the tonsil or pharyngeal wall on one side, causing persistent, sharp pain.
When to Be Concerned: Signs Requiring Medical Attention
While many instances of one-sided throat pain resolve on their own, certain accompanying symptoms signal the need for prompt medical evaluation. Difficulty breathing, especially if accompanied by noisy breathing or gasping, indicates a potential airway obstruction and requires immediate attention. Similarly, significant difficulty swallowing, to the point where saliva is hard to manage, or drooling, suggests a severe throat swelling that could compromise the airway.
The inability to fully open the mouth, known as trismus, is a concerning sign often associated with deep neck infections like a significant peritonsillar abscess, where inflammation affects jaw muscles. A high fever, typically above 101°F (38.3°C), especially when combined with rapidly worsening throat pain, can indicate a more severe bacterial infection. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, particularly if they are tender and rapidly enlarging on the affected side, also warrant medical assessment.
Other symptoms that should prompt a doctor’s visit include a rash, which might suggest certain systemic infections like scarlet fever, or significant voice changes, such as a “hot potato” voice. While rare, conditions like epiglottitis, an inflammation of the flap that covers the windpipe, can cause severe, sudden throat pain, difficulty swallowing, and breathing issues, often presenting as a medical emergency. Deep neck infections that extend beyond the tonsil area can also lead to severe, spreading pain and systemic symptoms. If one-sided throat pain persists for more than a few days without improvement, even in the absence of other severe symptoms, a medical consultation is advisable to determine the underlying cause and ensure appropriate management.
Managing the Discomfort
For one-sided throat pain that does not present with concerning symptoms, several home-based strategies can help alleviate discomfort. Gargling with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and soothe the throat. Drinking warm liquids, such as herbal tea, can provide a soothing effect and help keep the throat moist. Throat lozenges or sprays can temporarily numb the throat, offering short-term relief. Maintaining adequate hydration helps keep mucous membranes moist and supports healing.
Over-the-counter pain relievers are effective in managing localized throat pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce both pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen is another option that can relieve pain and reduce fever. Using a humidifier overnight can add moisture to the air and prevent the throat from drying out. Avoiding irritants such as cigarette smoke, strong chemical fumes, or extremely cold or dry air can prevent further irritation to the throat.