Coronavirus: What a COVID-19 sore throat really feels like, according to doctors
From fever to an itchy cough and body pain,
COVID-19 symptoms are way too similar to that of a cold or flu. However,
experts have repeatedly said that the earliest symptoms a person has
can alert them about an active infection, including a sore throat.
Having
a prickly, itchy throat, which could also feel like you have
experienced some swelling can be indicators of a sore throat. It is also
one of the most commonly experienced symptoms in a COVID-19 infection,
seen in over 52% cases globally.
The fear of getting infected can make people worry
However, having a sore throat alone isn't the sign of being coronavirus positive. It can be hard to determine whether your symptom is because of COVID alone. A sore throat can arise due to a lot of factors- change in weather, bacterial infections of tonsilitis. Hence, experiencing a scratchy throat can be common, but not definitely the most typical of symptom. Just like every cough or fever isn't a sign of COVID-19, having a sore throat isn't too alarming either.
Here is how a person can actually quell their fears and differentiate a sore throat from that of a COVID symptom:
How does a sore throat feel like?
According to doctors, there is no real difference between a COVID and a non-COVID sore throat. However, it's important to take into account the external factors before checking in your health.
A sore throat could feel like your throat actually hurts, or gets irritated. Some even experience a mild burning or itching sensation, which can get worse when swallowing food or water. Sometimes, a hoarse or muzzled voice, developing white patches (only clinically seen) or swelling can intensity a sore throat.
Most people feel under the weather whenever seasonal changes come in. Experts also say that the fluctuating weather conditions, a dip in air quality index (AQI) can also make people experience scratchy, prickly throats.
Changing weather to blame?
A shift in temperatures is the most ideal for tiny viruses and bacteria to flourish, and conveniently attack the body. For some, pollen release and allergies can also usher in the onset of sinus, sore throat and cough. Hence, it would be oblivious to expect that every sore throat you have is a classic COVID-19 symptom.
In fact, the change in season is also making people experience other typical viral infection symptoms, without being diagnosed for COVID-19. A study published in the International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology around April-May discovered that many patients with just sore throats didn't have COVID at all.
Hence, it's vital that you be aware of your health and not panic at the spotting of just a simple symptom.
When to worry
That being said, if you suspect your sore throat to be a sign of COVID-19, there are steps to be taken.
It hasn't been really made clear yet at what point does a sore threat develop in a COVID-19 case. However, it is a common symptom, more so, if you have been in close contact of someone recently detected COVID-19 positive.
A COVID diagnostic test could settle your doubts
The only real way to clear your doubts would be to get a COVID-test done. If you suspect an infection and feel no difference in your symptoms in a matter of two-three days, a test could help provide a better prognosis.
It's important to also be on the lookout for other symptoms, such as dry cough, fever, headache, shortness of breath, consider it a sign to talk to the doctor at the earliest. As a precautionary sign, start self-isolating and take measures of disinfection to protect the ones around you.
What are the measures you can take?
COVID or non-COVID, a sore throat can feel very uncomfortable and unpleasant. While self-medication is not advised at all, taking help from some over the counter medications can relieve some of your symptoms and put you at ease.
There are also certain home remedies which can be given a try. Soothing teas, honey-ginger concoctions and sipping on other warm liquids can help. You can also use a humidifier at home.
Taking gargles with warm water, steam inhalation, and avoiding drinks which are too cold can be a safe bet. Make sure you get adequate rest to charge up your immunity and give your body the chance to fight back.
If your sore throat is giving you pain, using pain-relieving medications, such as ibuprofen can be made use of. Increasing your intake of vitamin-C and zinc-rich foods is also advised.