10 causes of a burning throat and how it’s treated

A burning throat is a distressing symptom that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Whether it’s a mild irritation or an intense sensation, experiencing a burning sensation in the throat can be uncomfortable and worrisome. Understanding the underlying causes of this condition is crucial for effective management and relief

What is the Burning Sensation in Throat?

The sensation of a burning throat, also known as burning throat, can manifest in different forms, ranging from a mild irritation to a severe discomfort. Individuals often describe it as a feeling of heat, soreness, or rawness in the throat, which may be accompanied by pain or difficulty swallowing. This sensation can arise suddenly or develop gradually over time, and its persistence can lead to considerable discomfort and distress.

10 Causes of a burning throat

1) Acid Reflux:

• Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation of the oesophageal lining.
• This backward movement of acid can occur due to a weakened lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) or increased pressure on the stomach, allowing acid to escape.
• When acid reaches the throat, it can cause a burning sensation, commonly known as heartburn.

2) GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) :

• GERD is a chronic condition characterised by frequent episodes of acid reflux. Individuals with GERD often experience persistent heartburn, regurgitation, and throat discomfort, including a burning sensation.
• GERD occurs when the LES fails to close properly, allowing stomach acid to repeatedly flow back into the oesophagus.
• Over time, this can lead to complications such as esophagitis, ulcers, and strictures.
  

3) Dietary Factors:

• – Certain dietary habits and food choices can trigger acid reflux and contribute to throat irritation.
• Spicy foods, acidic beverages (such as citrus juices and coffee), fatty meals, and chocolate are known to relax the LES or stimulate acid production, increasing the risk of acid reflux symptoms, including a burning throat.
• Individuals prone to heartburn or GERD may benefit from avoiding these trigger foods.

4) Environmental Irritants:

• Exposure to environmental irritants such as smoke, pollution, allergens, and chemical fumes can irritate the throat lining and cause discomfort.
• Prolonged exposure to these irritants can lead to inflammation and a burning sensation in the throat
• Maintaining good indoor air quality, avoiding smoking, and minimising exposure to pollutants can help reduce throat irritation.

5) Respiratory Infections:

• Viral or bacterial infections affecting the respiratory tract, such as the common cold, flu, sinusitis, or tonsillitis, can lead to inflammation and discomfort in the throat.
• These infections can cause symptoms such as sore throat, coughing, and postnasal drip, contributing to a burning sensation in the throat.
• Adequate rest, hydration, and appropriate medical treatment are essential for managing throat symptoms associated with respiratory infections.

6) Postnasal Drip:

• Postnasal drip occurs when excess mucus from the nasal passages or sinuses drips down the back of the throat.
• This mucus can irritate the throat lining and lead to a burning sensation.
• Postnasal drip is commonly caused by allergies, sinus infections, or colds. Managing underlying conditions contributing to postnasal drip, such as allergies or sinusitis, can help alleviate throat discomfort.

7) Dry Air:

• Breathing dry air, particularly in indoor environments with low humidity levels, can dry out the throat tissues and lead to irritation.
• Dry air can exacerbate throat symptoms and contribute to a burning sensation.
• Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids can help alleviate throat dryness and discomfort.

8) Stress and Anxiety:

• Psychological factors such as stress and anxiety can exacerbate symptoms of a burning throat.
• Stress can increase muscle tension and affect the body’s ability to manage acid reflux effectively, leading to throat discomfort. Additionally, anxiety-related behaviours such as smoking or overeating can worsen symptoms.
• Implementing stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or therapy may help alleviate throat discomfort associated with stress and anxiety.

9) Medications:

• Certain medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, bisphosphonates, and some antibiotics, can irritate the oesophagus and throat lining, leading to a burning sensation.
• These medications may cause direct irritation or contribute to acid reflux symptoms.
• It’s essential to discuss potential side effects with a healthcare provider when taking medications that may affect the throat.

10) Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR):

• LPR occurs when stomach acid refluxes into the throat and larynx, causing irritation and inflammation.
• Unlike typical acid reflux symptoms, LPR primarily affects the upper airway and may not always present with heartburn.
• Symptoms of LPR include throat clearing, hoarseness, chronic cough, and a burning sensation in the throat.
• Managing LPR often involves lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and medications to reduce acid reflux and alleviate throat symptoms.

Is a Burning Throat a Sign of a Serious Medical Condition?

While a burning throat can often be attributed to common causes like acid reflux, dietary factors, or temporary infections, it may also signal more serious underlying conditions. Chronic acid reflux, known as GERD, can lead to complications like esophagitis or Barrett’s oesophagus if left untreated. Additionally, conditions such as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), throat infections, or even tumours in the throat or oesophagus can cause persistent burning sensations. It’s crucial to pay attention to the duration and severity of symptoms and seek medical evaluation if they persist or worsen. While many cases of burning throat are benign, timely intervention is essential to rule out serious medical conditions and prevent potential complications.”

Is burning throat associated with COVID_19 ?

While a burning throat is not typically considered a hallmark symptom of COVID-19, some individuals infected with the virus may experience it along with other symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. COVID-19 symptoms can vary widely, and atypical symptoms like a burning throat may occur. If you experience a burning throat along with other COVID-19 symptoms, seek medical advice promptly and consider testing to confirm the diagnosis.

Can allergies and sinus cause burning throat?

Allergies and sinus issues can lead to a burning throat primarily through postnasal drip, where excess mucus drips down the back of the throat, causing irritation and inflammation. Sinus inflammation and pressure can also contribute to throat discomfort. Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and mould can trigger an immune response in the throat, leading to inflammation and a burning sensation. Chronic exposure to allergens or persistent sinus inflammation can result in ongoing throat irritation. Additionally, allergies and sinusitis can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to secondary throat infections. Managing allergies and sinus issues with appropriate treatment and avoiding triggers can help alleviate throat symptoms and improve overall comfort.

Is sore throat a symptom of throat cancer?

Yes, a sore throat can be a symptom of throat cancer, although it is important to note that throat cancer is relatively rare compared to other causes of a sore throat. Throat cancer refers to the development of cancerous cells in the throat area, which can include the pharynx, larynx, or tonsils. Treatment options for a burning throat depend on the underlying cause of the symptom.

 Here are some common treatment approaches:

Addressing Acid Reflux and GERD:

For individuals experiencing burning throat due to acid reflux or GERD, lifestyle modifications are often recommended. This may include:

• Avoiding trigger foods and beverages that can worsen acid reflux, such as spicy foods, citrus fruits, caffeine, and alcohol.
• Consuming smaller meals at more frequent intervals can help alleviate pressure on the stomach
• Avoid lying down or bending over immediately after eating.
• Elevating the head of the bed to prevent stomach acid from refluxing into the oesophagus while sleeping.
• Quitting smoking, as smoking can worsen symptoms of acid reflux.
• Using over-the-counter antacids, H2 receptor antagonists, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid and alleviate symptoms.

Managing Allergies and Sinusitis:

If allergies or sinus issues are contributing to a burning throat, treatment may involve:

• Avoiding exposure to allergens whenever possible.
• Using nasal saline rinses or sprays to help clear mucus from the nasal passages and reduce post nasal drip.
• Taking antihistamines or decongestants to alleviate allergy symptoms.
• Using corticosteroid nasal sprays to reduce inflammation in the sinuses.
• Undergoing allergy testing and considering immunotherapy (allergy shots) for long-term management of allergies.

Treating Throat Infections:

If a bacterial or viral infection is causing a burning throat, treatment may involve:

• Antibiotics are prescribed to treat bacterial infections such as strep throat.
• Antiviral medications for viral infections such as influenza.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers and throat lozenges to alleviate discomfort.
• Rinsing the throat with a solution of warm salt water for comfort.

Addressing Environmental Irritants:

Individuals experiencing a burning throat due to exposure to environmental irritants may benefit from:

• Avoiding smoke, pollution, chemical fumes, and other irritants whenever possible.
• Using air purifiers or humidifiers to improve indoor air quality and maintain proper humidity levels.
• Wearing a mask or respiratory protection when working in environments with known irritants.

Managing Stress and Anxiety:

For individuals whose burning throat symptoms are exacerbated by stress or anxiety, treatment may involve:

• Stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness practices.
• Counselling or therapy to address underlying psychological factors contributing to stress and anxiety.

Seeking Medical Evaluation:

If conservative measures do not provide relief or if symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination, diagnose the underlying cause of the burning throat, and recommend appropriate treatment. In some cases, further evaluation such as imaging studies or endoscopy may be necessary to identify or rule out serious conditions such as throat cancer or structural abnormalities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a burning throat can stem from various causes, including acid reflux, allergies, infections, and environmental irritants. By implementing lifestyle modifications, managing underlying conditions, and seeking medical evaluation when necessary, individuals can alleviate discomfort and improve throat health. Consulting a healthcare professional, such as ENT Doctor Dr. Simple Bhadania, ensures personalised evaluation and treatment recommendations, enhancing patient care and outcomes. Dr. Simple Bhadania’s expertise and compassionate approach play a vital role in addressing burning throat symptoms and promoting overall wellness, empowering individuals to regain comfort and confidence in their throat health.