When allergies strike, they usually bring an annoying tag-along—a sore throat. Understanding how allergies and sore throats are linked is the first step to easing the discomfort and keeping it from becoming a regular problem.
The Link Between Allergies and Sore Throats
Allergies are your immune system's overreaction to harmless substances, such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites1. When exposed to these allergens, your body releases histamines, triggering symptoms like itchiness, sneezing, congestion, and postnasal drip.
Postnasal drip, in particular, is a significant contributor to allergies and sore throat. The constant flow of mucus dripping down the back of your throat can lead to irritation, inflammation, and a persistent itchy or dry feeling1. Combine that with mouth breathing caused by nasal congestion, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for throat discomfort.
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If you’re wondering whether your sore throat might be allergy-related or not, check out our guide on the Signs Your Sore Throat is Caused by an Allergy to learn more. |
What Causes Sore Throat Due to Allergies?
To better tackle your sore throat, it’s essential to pinpoint what’s causing it. Here are the primary culprits:
- Postnasal Drip
When allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander enter your nasal passages, they trigger an immune response. This response releases chemicals such as histamine2, which leads to inflammation and increased mucus production. - Dry Air or Dehydration
Allergies often flare up during the dry season when the hot weather and increased use of air conditioning can dry out the air. In addition, dry air can irritate the mucous membranes in your throat, worsening an itchy throat from allergies3. - Allergen Exposure
Direct exposure to allergens like dust, pollen, or pet dander can irritate the throat. Studies have shown that continuous exposure to allergens can lead to more severe and persistent symptoms4. - Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS)
If you experience a sore or itchy throat after eating certain raw fruits or vegetables, you might have OAS, a condition linked to pollen allergies5. This cross-reactivity can cause symptoms like itching or swelling in the mouth and throat. Some common fruits or vegetable triggers for OAS can include apples, pears, melons, carrots, celery, almonds, and hazelnuts. These are just some of the common triggers.
Allergy Sore Throat Relief: Strategies for Comfort
Thankfully, you don’t have to endure allergy-induced sore throats indefinitely. With these practical tips, you can find relief and manage your symptoms effectively:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus and keeps your throat moist. Warm teas with honey are especially soothing for a dry or itchy throat from allergies. Research shows that honey has some antimicrobial and anti-inflammation properties. Honey can help by decreasing inflammation and irritation in your throat6.
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Raw honey isn’t just delicious—it’s a natural throat soother. Warm teas with honey are especially soothing for a dry or itchy throat from allergies. |
2. Use a Humidifier
Adding moisture to the air can help prevent your throat from drying out, especially if you use air-conditioning, which can dry out the air9.
3. Avoid Allergens
Minimize exposure to known triggers. Keep windows closed during high-pollen days, use allergen-proof covers for bedding, and regularly clean your living space to reduce dust mites and pet dander. Additionally, you can use an air purifier, especially in polluted areas9.
4. Rinse with Salt Water
Gargling a saltwater solution (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in warm water) can reduce throat irritation and inflammation caused by postnasal drip. The saltwater saltwater works by loosening mucus and soothing the throat7, which can alleviate discomfort.
5. Medications for Allergy Relief
Over-the-counter antihistamines such as loratadine and cetirizine work by blocking the histamine response that causes allergy symptoms8. Nasal sprays or decongestants may also be effective.
5. Try Soothing Lozenges
Lozenges can temporarily ease discomfort by lubricating your throat and providing a cooling effect. Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol + Amylmetacresol (Strepsils) offers a range of options specifically designed to soothe sore throats from lozenges with vitamin C or sugar-free lozenges. They even have lozenges for dry and chesty coughs. They even have lozenges for dry and chesty coughs.
Different Types of Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol + Amylmetacresol (Strepsils) Lozenges |
Mild Sore Throat
Severe Sore Throat
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6. Get Tested
Consider allergy testing to identify your specific triggers. Knowing what to avoid can significantly reduce your symptoms. This can lead to more effective management of your allergies and an overall improvement in your quality of life.
For persistent throat irritation, keeping Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol + Amylmetacresol (Strepsils) on hand can be a lifesaver. Find out where to buy Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol + Amylmetacresol (Strepsils) today.
When to See a Doctor
While most cases of allergy-induced sore throat are manageable with home remedies, there are times when professional help is necessary. Consult a doctor if you experience:
- Severe or persistent sore throat lasting more than a week.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Fever higher than 101 F (38.3 C)
- Rash, or other unusual symptoms alongside your sore throat.
- No improvement despite using over-the-counter medications and remedies.
These could be signs of a more serious condition requiring specialized treatment.
Summary
A sore throat from allergies is uncomfortable but manageable. By understanding the link between allergies and sore throat and adopting the right strategies, you can find relief and even prevent future occurrences. Stay hydrated, avoid allergens, and use soothing remedies like lozenges to ease the discomfort. For added support, check out our resources and products designed to keep your throat in top shape.
For more information on managing allergy-related sore throats, explore our comprehensive guide on Signs Your Sore Throat is Caused by an Allergy or browse our Lozenges product page for effective solutions. Don’t let allergies hold you back—breathe easy and stay comfortable!
Resources:
- (n.d.). Sore throat from allergies: Causes, treatment, and prevention. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/sore-throat
- Allergy & Asthma Network. (n.d.). Nasal allergy (allergic rhinitis). Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/allergies/nasal-allergy-allergic-rhinitis/
- S. News. (n.d.). How to treat seasonal allergies. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://health.usnews.com/conditions/allergies/articles/how-to-treat-seasonal-allergies
- Krouse, J. H., & Derebery, M. J. (2015). Allergic rhinitis and its effect on sleep, fatigue, and daytime somnolence. Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, 15(7), 42. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11882-014-0425-9
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Oral allergy syndrome. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23996-oral-allergy-syndrome
- S. News. (n.d.). How to treat seasonal allergies. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://health.usnews.com/conditions/allergies/articles/how-to-treat-seasonal-allergies
- (n.d.). Home remedies for postnasal drip. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-post-nasal-drip
- Solv Health. (n.d.). Can allergies cause a sore throat? Here’s what you need to know. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.solvhealth.com/blog/can-allergies-cause-a-sore-throat-here-s-what-you-need-to-know
- Sore Throat Remedies That Work (and What Not to Do) https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/sore-throat-natural-remedies Accessed 15 April 2025