A persistent sore throat is a common symptom following an acute COVID-19 infection. This prolonged discomfort is recognized as part of Long COVID, a condition where symptoms linger or emerge weeks or months after the initial illness. Long COVID, also known as post-COVID condition, involves a variety of health issues that continue for an extended period.
How Long the Sore Throat Persists
The duration of a persistent COVID-related sore throat is highly variable. While a typical sore throat from the initial viral infection usually resolves within three to seven days, a lingering sensation can extend for weeks or even several months as a feature of Long COVID. Some studies suggest that symptoms associated with Long COVID may persist for four to six months before showing improvement.
This protracted timeline is often unpredictable, lacking a clear endpoint. Symptom severity may not remain constant; many individuals report a pattern of waxing and waning, where the pain or irritation lessens only to flare up again. Factors such as overall health, age, and the specific viral variant involved can influence how long the inflammation continues. A sore throat persisting beyond 12 weeks is often used to characterize a symptom as part of Long COVID, distinguishing it from the acute phase of the illness.
Characteristics of a Persistent COVID-Related Sore Throat
The persistent sore throat associated with post-COVID condition is often described with specific qualities. Many patients report a sensation of scratchiness, profound dryness, or a constant tickle that triggers an urge to clear the throat or cough. The pain can feel like a tightness or a burning sensation, sometimes described as feeling like “razor blades” upon swallowing.
Another frequently reported characteristic is the feeling of a lump, or globus sensation, in the throat, which is often caused by muscle tightening rather than a physical obstruction. This ongoing irritation can lead to associated localized issues, such as hoarseness or other vocal changes, as the throat tissues remain sensitive. The discomfort may be constant for some, while for others, it can be triggered or worsened by talking, eating, physical exertion, or exposure to irritants like dry air.
Strategies for Symptom Relief
While there is no single treatment to immediately resolve a Long COVID sore throat, several practical strategies can help manage the chronic irritation and discomfort. Maintaining adequate fluid intake is important, as staying well-hydrated helps keep the throat and mouth moist, reducing dryness and irritation. Warm liquids like herbal teas or broth can be soothing, while some find relief from cold liquids or by sucking on ice chips.
Gargling with a saltwater solution (one teaspoon of salt mixed with eight ounces of warm water) can temporarily reduce inflammation and ease pain. Using a cool-mist humidifier in living and sleeping areas adds moisture to the air, which is especially beneficial at night. Sucking on lozenges or hard candies stimulates saliva production, which helps coat the throat. It is best to avoid known irritants such as smoke, strong fumes, and highly acidic or spicy foods.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
You should consult a healthcare provider if the sore throat lasts for more than two weeks without improvement, or if it suddenly worsens dramatically. Severe pain that makes it difficult or impossible to swallow liquids or food, leading to dehydration, requires prompt evaluation. Immediate medical attention is necessary if the persistent sore throat is accompanied by difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a high fever that does not respond to medication. Other concerning indicators include visible signs of infection, such as pus on the tonsils, or swelling in the neck, jaw, or tongue. A sudden change in voice, such as persistent hoarseness or the development of a muffled voice, could also signal a complication that needs assessment.