Sore throat: A symptom with various triggers
The upper respiratory tract, which includes the nose, paranasal sinuses and throat, comes into contact with many substances when we breathe. Sore throats occur when the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract are irritated by environmental toxins (so-called noxious substances) and dry air or are attacked by pathogens. But people who speak a lot and loudly at work or in their free time can also get throat problems. People in professions that place a lot of strain on their voices (such as teachers, singers and call centre employees) are particularly likely to suffer from sore throats and sometimes even lose their voice. There are also other triggers, as heartburn or hay fever can also cause sore throats.
sore throat with a cold
The common precursors of a cold are a scratchy or sore throat . Other symptoms such as headaches, a runny nose and a cough appear later. The symptoms are usually caused by viruses, but in rarer cases by bacteria that spread on the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.
In order to neutralise the troublemakers, the body reacts with an inflammatory reaction in the affected area. The mucous membranes turn red and swell, putting pressure on the surrounding tissue and nerves. These send a pain signal to the brain – this is how we feel a sore throat. Even if this normal defensive reaction is sometimes very painful, it is important because it fights the pathogens quickly and removes them. At best, this prevents the pathogens from penetrating deeper areas of the lungs.
neck pain due to overuse
In addition to pathogens, sore throats can also be caused by overusing the voice : for example, if you talk a lot, speak loudly in a noisy environment or sing in front of an audience. This causes the natural mucus layer to wear down and tear. The mucus layer is a thin film of secretion in the mouth and throat that protects against external irritants and keeps the mucous membranes moist. This results in symptoms such as a dry cough and frequent clearing of the throat. In the worst case, you lose your voice.
How do sore throats occur ?
If the protective layer of moisture is not sufficient, pathogens and other pollutants can more easily attack or irritate the cells in the throat and neck. People who often spend time in air-conditioned or heated rooms with dry air or who smoke not only damage the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat, but also their voice.
In order for the voice to be produced, air must flow from the lungs through the larynx. The air flow causes the vocal cords to vibrate, which creates sounds. If the humidity is too low, for example, the mucous membranes of the vocal cords sometimes lose the moisture they need. They are less elastic and no longer close completely as they normally do.
The harmonious rise and fall of the vocal cords can easily get out of balance. They swell, for example, due to a viral infection. The vocal cords can then no longer close and open as usual. This causes a sore throat as well as rattling and hoarse sounds.
If you often speak loudly, the vocal cords swell and can no longer open and close as usual. The entire larynx can also become tense. If you still speak to combat the hoarseness, you risk making it worse. This may cause nodules to form, which further impair the ability to vibrate.
Emotional tension, stiff muscles and incorrect breathing also have a negative effect on the functions of the larynx. Many internal and neurological diseases can damage the vocal apparatus and also cause difficulty swallowing.
Sore throat caused by tonsillitis |
throat problems due to pharyngitis |
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Sore throat during pregnancy
The common precursors of a cold are a scratchy or sore throat . Other symptoms such as headaches, a runny nose and a cough appear later. The symptoms are usually caused by viruses, but in rarer cases by bacteria that spread on the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.
In order to neutralise the troublemakers, the body reacts with an inflammatory reaction in the affected area. The mucous membranes turn red and swell, putting pressure on the surrounding tissue and nerves. These send a pain signal to the brain – this is how we feel a sore throat. Even if this normal defensive reaction is sometimes very painful, it is important because it fights the pathogens quickly and removes them. At best, this prevents the pathogens from penetrating deeper areas of the lungs.
Pregnancy and sore throat›
Sore throat in children
Chronic condition: sore throat
Sore throats can also develop into a chronic illness. If the symptoms progress gradually and last for months or years , doctors refer to this as a chronic illness. The throat may become scratchy or there may be a feeling of a lump in the throat. This can sometimes lead to a real compulsion to clear the throat and hoarseness sets in.
Sore throat – what to do?
In addition to the dosage form, such as spray, gargle solution or lozenge, patients can also choose between different modes of action. Preparations with disinfectant active ingredients are available, which can render the germs in the throat area harmless on the surface. Preparations with painkillers can relieve severe throat pain. In rarer, more serious cases, antibiotics are necessary to treat a sore throat.
There are also medications that coat the mucous membrane and relieve irritation, such as GeloRevoice ® . These throat lozenges coat the dry and irritated throat mucosa with a protective film. It adheres to the mucous membrane for a long time and protects it from further influences and irritations, which can relieve pain in the throat.
Overview of the effects of the various remedies for sore throats:
- antiseptic (disinfectant)
- anti-inflammatory (anti-inflammatory)
- antibiotic (acts against bacteria)
- astringent (contracting)
- local anesthetic (numbing)
- mucilaginous (soothing, lining mucous membranes)
GeloRevoice ® throat lozenges for sore throats and voice problems
Tips for swallowing difficulties and sore throats
For acute and chronic sore throats and swallowing difficulties , use tried and tested home remedies. These can be used as a supplement to soothing preparations. Homemade gargle solutions are also possible.
The other drug forms differ depending on the type of effect:
✔ Sage
Sage tea from the pharmacy can not only be drunk, but also gargled. To do this, brew the tea according to the instructions on the packet and let it cool down a little before gargling. You can repeat this several times a day. The ingredients in the sage ensure that the mucous membrane surface is soothed.
✔ Salt
Add a teaspoon to a quarter liter of lukewarm water and stir until the salt has completely dissolved. This solution can also be gargled several times a day.
Gargling solutions are usually unsuitable for small children because they do not yet have the technique down and there is a risk of choking. If your child has a sore throat , offer them a pain-relieving, sweet and tasty syrup as an alternative.
To make an onion and honey syrup, cut an onion into small cubes and then put them in a screw-top jar with three tablespoons of honey. It is best to leave the mixture to steep overnight before straining the syrup the next morning. Give your child a teaspoon two to three times a day. The onion and honey syrup can relieve the unpleasant scratchy throat .
Other home remedies for sore throats and difficulty swallowing:
✔ Tea
If your throat feels dry or you have a sore throat and difficulty swallowing, it is important to drink enough fluids. This will keep the mucous membranes moist. In addition to water, drink medicinal teas such as chamomile, ginger, thyme or plantain tea.
✔ Neck wraps
Do you like heat or cold? Once you’ve figured that out, you can relieve your throat pain with the help of warm or cold neck wraps.
✔ Vitamins
Make sure you eat a balanced and healthy diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables. Foods that are particularly rich in vitamins include fruits such as citrus fruits, berries, sea buckthorn and kiwis, as well as many types of vegetables. These include broccoli and peppers, for example.
Is exercise advisable for a sore throat?
The answer is usually no . Sore throats and similar complaints are often symptoms of a viral or bacterial infection and caution is advised. Doing too much strenuous exercise can cause additional damage to your body.
If you only feel a slight scratchy throat, you can do some exercise, but only in a light form. Yoga, easy cycling, Tai Chi and walking are all good options.
Important: Don’t overdo it and listen to your body.
When to see a doctor?
If you have been suffering from a sore throat for a long time and it does not go away, you should see a doctor. If other symptoms occur in addition to the sore throat, such as fever and breathing problems, or if the pain is getting worse, then seek medical advice immediately . Your family doctor or ENT doctor can find out the cause and start with targeted treatment. If the pain affects your child, please see a pediatrician.
GeloRevoice ® for sore throats and other throat complaints
Throat problems are not only unpleasant, they also disrupt everyday life. In order to quickly get fit again for the daily demands of life, it is advisable to act quickly. In addition to resting your voice, try GeloRevoice ® throat lozenges.
GeloRevoice ® throat lozenges
You can treat various throat complaints with GeloRevoice ® :
- sore throat
- coughing
- hoarseness
- voice failure
- difficulty swallowing
- compulsive coughing
- sore throat
- dry throat
GeloRevoice ® quickly and noticeably relieves throat pain
Anyone who is putting a lot of strain on their voice and is suffering from a sore throat, a need to clear their throat or a dry cough needs help quickly. GeloRevoice ® is the first mucilaginous preparation that forms a special hydro-depot when sucked. Together with the saliva, the gelling agents xanthan, carbomer and hyaluronic acid it contains create a protective film that covers the irritated mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. This reliably relieves throat problems.
For throat pain and voice problems.
Triple active principle with hyaluronic acid, carbomer and xanthan
The triple action principle of GeloRevoice ® throat lozenges is based on the gelling agents hyaluronic acid, carbomer and xanthan. It ensures that a film of moisture forms in the throat when sucked, which keeps the mucous membranes moist for a long time and protects them from further irritation. This allows them to regenerate.
The throat lozenges are suitable for children from the age of six. Dosage : You can take one lozenge several times a day (every two to three hours), but not more than six in total.
Tip
1 tablet every 2 to 3 hours – up to 6 tablets a day. Suitable for children aged 6 and over.
