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Causes of Throat Allergy & How to Treat at Home?

Have you had a sore throat for a week or two? Often, there is a concern about what has been done to cure it, only to find the same condition returned. Have you tried various remedies and yet failed to treat it completely? It can be a throat allergy or a simple cold and flu; you never know.

Allergies are very annoying, specifically those involving ears, nose, and throat. They can cause a range of discomforts that impact your daily life. Itchy throat, runny nose, and frequent headaches are the most common symptoms of throat allergies.

Distinguishing allergies is an essential step in successfully treating them. Read the article to find answers to your sore throat.

Table of Contents

What is Throat Allergy?

Types & Causes

Signs and Symptoms

What are the Risk Factors?

How to Diagnose?

How to Treat?

How to Get Rid of Throat Allergy?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Throat Allergy?

A sore or itchy throat is the basic symptom of a throat allergy. It is caused when an antibody fights to fend off foreign substances like bacteria, viruses, etc., that threaten your body. The most common allergic reactions are caused by the antibody immunoglobulin (IgE).

The reaction of IgE antibodies results in inflammation that causes an itchy throat. Furthermore, various environmental substances, such as food materials, certain medicines, animal bites, etc., are also susceptible to allergic reactions.

Types of Throat Allergies

Throat issues can arise from bacterial and viral infections, each causing distinct symptoms and requiring different treatments. Here are ten different types of throat allergies:

1. Bacterial

  • Streptococcal Pharyngitis (Strep Throat)

Streptococcal Pharyngitis or strep throat is a Group A Streptococcus bacterial infection characterized by intense throat inflammation, fever, and swollen tonsils, which may accompany white spots.

  • Tonsillitis
A common condition affecting adults and children, tonsillitis is primarily caused by bacteria. It results in the swelling of the tonsils, which is characterized by throat pain, fever, and challenges in swallowing.

  • Diphtheria

This is a severe bacterial infection of the throat caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, associated with a grey membrane in the throat and tonsils, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Immunization is the best prevention measure.

  • Peritonsillar Abscess

This is a complication of tonsillitis in which pus collects around the tonsils. It is caused by bacterial infections and results in severe throat pain, fever, and difficulty swallowing. It usually requires surgery and antibiotics.

2. Viral

  • Common Cold

A cold is an illness of the upper respiratory tract caused by several viruses, such as rhinovirus, which has symptoms like a sore throat, running nose, and mild temperatures. It is self-limiting, with all measures geared towards the alleviation.

  • Influenza (Flu)

The flu is defined as the infection of an individual through a virus that cannot be avoided. This illness causes a sudden high body temperature, a fever, sore throat, body pains, and weakness.

  • Mononucleosis (Mono)

A known cause of this disease, infectious mononucleosis, led to the formation of Epstein-Barr, which is one of the herpes viruses and is known to be an infectious cause. It lasts for weeks due to many circumstances, usually recognizable.

  • Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is a herpes infection caused by the HSV virus, resulting in complications. Apart from burning and painful sensations in the throat and jaws, sores arise on the lips or inside the mouth.

  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection

Most cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection cases are asymptomatic. Like mononucleosis (mono), typical symptoms of CMV infection may include a throat, fever, and lymph node inflammation.

  • Adenoviral Pharyngitis

With a sore throat, fever and occasionally conjunctivitis, pharyngitis adenoviral is due to the adenoviruses. Its course is mostly self-limiting, as the mainstay of management is support.

What are the Causes of Throat Allergies?

Viruses and bacterial infections are the primary cause of throat allergies. Streptococcus pyogenes is the most common bacterial infection, whereas a sore throat caused by viruses includes:

Viral Causes Description
Common Cold This viral infection can be characterized by mild throat irritation, coughing, sneezing, and rhinorrhea (runny nose).
Flu (Influenza) Flu is a more serious viral infection associated with sore throat, high temperatures, and body aches. It can hinder a person.
Mono (Mononucleosis) Mono is caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus and is characterized by severe throat cramps, swollen lymph glands, and extreme lethargy.
Measles An infectious disease that can be easily transmitted. Measles affects people of all ages and often results in severe complications.
Chickenpox A contagious disease that results from the varicella-zoster virus. They are ubiquitous in children.
COVID-19 A viral infection causes pain in the throat, a loss of sense of taste and smell, and pain when swallowing.
Croup It is a viral disease mainly affecting young children and is characterized by a barky cough and a hoarse voice.

Other causes of throat allergies caused by food materials or surroundings include:

Other Causes Description
Pollen (Grass, Trees, Weeds) Pollen of grasses, trees, and weeds irritates people's throats and allergies, especially during the pollination season.
Dust Mites Dust mites, frequently living in hairs, skin flakes or dust, may also provoke an allergic reaction in the Avatar's throat, leading to hypersensitivity. 
Mould Spores Throat irritation and allergies caused by mould spores in wet places can induce coughing and a sore throat.
Cockroaches Throat allergy to cockroach droppings- a common household pest- triggers allergic responses, especially in city settings.
Dog/Cat Dander Dog and cat fur can provoke throat hypersensitivity, leading to inflammation, soreness, or other allergies.
Eggs There is also egg allergy, which causes the throat to itch and swell, especially in people with many allergies.
Soy Products Soy allergy can also cause sore and itchy throats and swelling, although these symptoms vary from mild to strong.
Milk One of the most common food allergies in children is milk allergy, which causes itching or swelling of the throat.
Tree Nuts Tree nut infestation causes severe, constant throat itching, which tends to swell and may lead to anaphylactic shock.
Peanuts Peanut allergy is a major cause of throat soreness and swelling, as well as irritation and other allergic reactions.
Fish and Shellfish Fish and shellfish allergies can cause throat irritation, but allergy symptoms caused by these foods may be rather extreme.
Apple Skin Some people are known to have allergies to apples and their skin, which may cause swelling in the throat or slight irritation.
Wheat Certain wheat allergies are responsible for more than throat problems, among other allergy symptoms that are particularly sensitive.
Artificial Preservatives Sulphites, a common ingredient in industrially produced products, may provoke an inflammatory response in the throat in some people.
Artificial Sweeteners Certain sweeteners, especially aspartame and saccharin, can cause pain or swelling in the throle.
Food Dyes Some food colorants, particularly Tartrazine (Yellow 5), can cause throat allergies and other allergies in some people.
MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) Many prepared foods contain MSG- which may provoke allergies, causing irritation and even swelling of the throat.
Latex in Food Packaging Food-grade latex can be found on packaging materials and foods, irritating latex allergy patients' throat.
Certain Spices Spices, including cinnamon or mustard, can irritate the throat or cause swelling in the throat of allergic individuals.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Throat Allergies?

Identifying throat allergies involves understanding their various manifestations. Throat allergy symptoms and signs generally depend on the cause. It includes:

Symptom Explanation
Throat Pain and Itching The feeling of an itchy throat and pain that arises from the period of exposure to the causative agent of allergy.
Difficulty and Pain While Swallowing Pain and discomfort while swallowing food, often due to inflammation caused by throat allergies, make eating or drinking unpleasant.
Inflammation of Glands and Tonsils Swollen neck glands, including tonsils and other soft masses in the area, were so shabby that they caused evident pain on the part.
White Patches or Pus on Tonsils Indicated by the appearance of such white patches and pus collecting around the tonsils returned to hypersensitive tissues.
Cracked or Cloaked Voice Hoarseness is commonly experienced with throat allergies resulting from allergy inflammation.

Other signs and symptoms caused due to infections include:

Symptom Explanation
Fever A state in which the body temperature rises, usually as a reaction to an infection or disease, causing chills and sweating.
Cough A long-lasting cough is usually brought about by an inflammation or infection in the throat or respiratory system.
Runny Nose A condition in which excessive nose secretions are formed and manifested by a very irritating rhinorrhea or a dripping nose.
Sneezing Often referred to as a sneeze, it is the explosive act of forcing air from the lungs, nose, or mouth involuntarily and frequently.
Body Aches A common symptom of all bodily infections, such as influenza, is generally felt body pain or discomfort in muscle regions.
Headache On some occasions, pain in the head region has different intensity levels that act as an irritant.
Nausea or Vomiting It is common in infections and other diseases in the abdomen when nausea or actual vomiting occurs.
Fatigue Fatigue or loss of energy that lasts a long time is usually a consequence of infections that tend to affect a person’s general wellness.
Shortness of Breath This sensation suggests insufficiency in gas exchange or respiratory failure, accompanied by some discomfort in the respiratory tract, infections or extreme allergic concerns.
Congestion The inflammation of the nasal cavity or its obstruction, which hinders one from breathing through the nostrils, creates soreness in the sinuses from inside the head.

What are the Risk Factors of Throat Allergy?

Anyone can acquire a sore throat due to seasonal changes. Still, some factors make people more susceptible to itchy throats. They are listed below:

  • Age Group: Children between the ages of 3 to 15 years are more likely to develop a sore throat due to common bacterial infections.
  • Consumption or Exposure to Tobacco Smoke: Apart from a sore throat, smoking increases the risk of cancer of the mouth, throat and voice box.
  • Seasonal or Other Ongoing Allergies: Symptoms of dust allergy in the throat, moulds, or pet dander also increase the risk of throat allergies.
  • Exposure to Chemical Irritants: Particles from burnt fossil fuels, chemical factories or households can instigate an itchy throat.
  • Chronic or Frequent Sinus Infections: A runny or clogged nose can further irritate your throat.
  • Infections Transferred From Other Hosts: Gatherings can provoke bacterial or viral infections to move from one host to another.
  • Weak Immunity: Individuals with low resistance power are more susceptible to infections. People who suffer from HIV, or diabetes, or are on chemotherapy drugs or a poor diet are liable to suffer from throat allergies.

How to Diagnose Throat Allergies?

Doctors review the symptoms and medical history to diagnose a person. A doctor conducts a physical examination, which comprises the following procedures.

  • Uses a torch to check the passage of the throat, ears, and nasal.
  • Taps to check for any swollen glands from neck to cheek.
  • Uses a stethoscope to check for breathing irregularity, if any.
  • In some cases, a simple swab test is done to detect streptococcal bacteria.
  • Allergy tests, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, can be done to recognize allergies.
  • X-rays or CT scans can be done to assess issues in the throat or sinuses.

How to Treat Throat Allergies?

Various throat allergy treatment methods are available, including some home remedies. Some increase immunity, while others comfort the throat.

Treatment Method Description
Antihistamines It blocks histamine reactions in the immune system. Doctors prescribe antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra for throat allergies.
Lozenges and Cough Drops Cough drops and lozenges are beneficial to soothe an itchy throat allergy. It contains menthol or benzocaine which eases throat soreness and irritation.
Fluids Dehydration can also cause an itchy throat. So, drink enough fluid to produce enough saliva, else it can worsen itchy throat allergies.
Honey Honey, when consumed, coats and soothes itchy throat temporarily. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties can help in reducing irritation.
Salt Water Gargle Take a cup of warm water and add a pinch of salt to it. You can use it to gargle every hour to get rid of throat allergies.
Humidifiers and Air Purifiers Humidifiers remove moisture from the air, and air purifiers remove allergens from the air. Thus, they help you to breathe fresh air.

How to Get Rid of a Throat Allergy?

Addressing throat issues promptly is crucial for effective relief and avoiding complications. Prevention is better than cure, and you can easily get rid of throat allergies in the following ways:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds.
  • Do not touch your face unnecessarily.
  • Do not share food, drinks, etc.
  • Always cover your mouth while you sneeze or cough.
  • Alcohol-based sanitisers are a must every time you touch something or sneeze or cough.
  • Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces or things you use.
  • Avoid gatherings.
  • Hydration is important to keep the throat well; every allergy should be washed out by drinking plenty of fluids.
  • In many cases, especially when the allergy is concerned, the use of a mask can be helpful to those who are exposed to allergens and control the allergic symptoms.
  • Both smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke should be avoided since they can worsen throat allergies.
  • Self-medication can provide relief from symptoms but is not encouraged, and expert consultation is best.

 

Anybody can be diagnosed with a throat allergy regardless of age. Seasonal changes, viral or bacterial infections are among the most common causes of itchy throat allergies. The symptoms are pretty annoying but once identified, avoid contact with others. Reach out to your doctor and take the necessary steps to prevent further spread. Otherwise, it can lead to various other complications.

FAQs about Throat Allergy

How long does allergy in the throat last?

Sore throat caused by cold and flu may last for two weeks. However, allergic reactions remain as long as the person is exposed to allergens.

Is dry throat a symptom of allergies?

Yes, dry throat is a common symptom of throat allergy caused by seasonal changes and, if not treated, may even last up to 6 weeks.

Can throat allergies cause swollen tonsils?

Yes, throat allergies can lead to swollen tonsils due to inflammation, as the immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen or pet dander in the environment.

What is the best treatment for throat allergies?

The best treatment usually involves antihistamines to reduce the allergic reaction, decongestants for easier breathing, corticosteroids for severe inflammation, and avoiding known allergens.

Can throat allergies lead to a cough?

Yes, throat allergies can frequently cause a persistent cough. This is often due to throat irritation and postnasal drip, where excess mucus runs down the back of the throat, triggering a cough reflex.

Is a sore throat without a fever an allergy?

A sore throat without fever is often a sign of an allergy rather than an infection, as viral or bacterial infections typically cause both a sore throat and a fever.

Can throat allergies cause ear pain?

Yes, throat allergies can cause ear pain because the inflammation in the throat can affect the Eustachian tubes, leading to discomfort or pressure in the ears.

Do throat allergies cause a runny nose?

Yes, throat allergies are often accompanied by a runny nose. This occurs because allergens like dust or pollen trigger the nasal passages to produce more mucus, leading to a runny nose and sometimes postnasal drip.

Can throat allergies cause bad breath?

Throat allergies can contribute to bad breath because the buildup of mucus in the throat provides a breeding ground for bacteria, producing foul-smelling odours.

Is hoarseness a symptom of throat allergies?

Yes, hoarseness can be a symptom of throat allergies, as the inflammation and irritation caused by allergens can affect the vocal cords, leading to changes in the voice.

Are throat allergies contagious?

No, throat allergies are not contagious. They are caused by an individual’s reaction to allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander and cannot be spread from person to person, like a cold or flu.

Can throat allergies cause fatigue?

Yes, throat allergies can lead to fatigue, particularly if the allergic reaction is ongoing. The body’s constant battle against allergens can be exhausting, leading to tiredness and a lack of energy.

Do throat allergies require antibiotics?

No, antibiotics are not needed for throat allergies since they target bacterial infections. Allergies require different treatments like antihistamines or decongestants to manage symptoms.

Can throat allergies cause difficulty breathing?

In some cases, severe throat allergies can cause difficulty breathing. This can happen if the throat or airways become significantly swollen or inflamed, potentially restricting airflow and requiring medical attention.