Sore Throat Solutions at AHN Jefferson Hospital

A sore throat is a common problem, especially during cold and flu season. In many cases, it gets better with rest, fluids, and simple home care. But if symptoms last too long, get worse, or keep coming back, it might be time to get checked out.

With a new ear, nose, and throat (ENT) practice now seeing patients at AHN Jefferson, people in the South Hills of Pittsburgh have easier access to specialty care for persistent throat concerns.

What causes a sore throat?

There are several possible causes of a sore throat.

Viral infections

Most sore throats are caused by viruses — such as the common cold, flu, or viral laryngitis — and usually get better on their own with time. These infections often come with other symptoms like a runny nose, cough, tiredness, or a hoarse voice.

Bacterial infections

Some sore throats are caused by bacteria, like strep throat or tonsillitis. A bacterial infection may be more likely if you have severe throat pain, symptoms that last longer than a week, or if you start to feel better before becoming worse again.

Acid reflux

Sometimes a sore throat is not caused by an infection at all. When stomach acid travels up into the throat, it can cause irritation and pain. Signs of reflux may include:

• A burning feeling in the chest or throat.
• A sour or bitter taste in your mouth.
• Feeling like something is stuck in your throat.
• Symptoms that get worse at night or when you lay down.

Allergies

Allergies can cause mucus to drip down the back of your throat. This is called postnasal drip. It can make your throat feel sore or scratchy.

Voice strain

Talking too much, yelling, or singing can irritate your throat and vocal cords. This can make a sore throat worse.

How to get rid of a sore throat at home

Most home remedies help manage symptoms while the body heals. Simple solutions that can help with a sore throat include:

• Rest and hydration
• Warm tea with honey
• Gargling warm salt water
• Sore throat medicine such as throat lozenges or sprays
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Voice rest

If acid reflux is causing your sore throat, try avoiding food too close to bedtime, sleeping with your head slightly raised, or asking your doctor about over-the-counter antacids.

“At-home remedies can help you feel better,” says Robert Archbold, DO, an AHN otolaryngologist who specializes in ear, nose, and throat conditions. “But they don’t always address the underlying cause.”

When to see a doctor for a sore throat

Most viral sore throats improve within a few days to about one week. You should see a doctor if: 

• Your symptoms last longer than 7 days.
• Your voice stays hoarse for more than 2 weeks.
• You have severe throat pain, making it difficult to swallow.
• You start to feel better, then feel worse again.

Some sore throat symptoms should be checked right away. Seek urgent care if you have:

• A neck mass
• Severe swelling
• Ear pain along with voice changes
• Trouble swallowing or breathing

“When in doubt,” says Dr. Archbold, “it’s always better to get checked out rather than wait for symptoms to become more serious.” 

The benefits of seeing an ENT specialist

Most sore throats can be treated by your primary care physician or an urgent care provider. If your symptoms continue or keep coming back, you may be referred to an ENT specialist for further evaluation.

ENT specialists focus on problems affecting the head and neck, including conditions of the ears, nose, throat, and vocal cords. They can provide more detailed exams using special tools to look closely at the throat, vocal cords, and nasal passages.

This can help them identify the cause of ongoing symptoms, such as:

• Acid reflux
• Tonsil problems
• Vocal cord irritation
• Growths or structural issues

The new ENT practice at Jefferson treats both routine and more complex conditions, working seamlessly with other specialists in gastroenterology, radiology, allergy, and head and neck surgery when needed.

Dr. Archbold says they typically start with the least invasive treatment options — including lifestyle changes, medicines, or monitoring symptoms over time — before considering more advanced treatments.

Don’t wait to get relief

While many sore throats improve on their own, symptoms that linger, worsen, or keep returning should not be ignored. The new ear, nose, and throat (ENT) team at AHN Jefferson Hospital can help identify the cause of persistent throat symptoms and recommend the right treatment plan to help you feel better.