What Causes a Burning Sensation in the Throat?

One of the most common culprits behind that burning feeling in your throat is acid reflux or its more severe form, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Normally, a valve in your esophagus protects your throat from stomach acid. However, when this valve weakens, stomach acid can make its way back up into the throat, causing that burning sensation we often call heartburn.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux and GERD:

• Burning in the chest and throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Chronic cough

This condition can be managed with diet changes, medications, and in more severe cases, medical procedures.

Ever feel like mucus is dripping down your throat? That’s post-nasal drip, a condition often triggered by a cold, the flu, or even seasonal allergies. When mucus from the nose drips into the throat, it can cause irritation, leading to a sore or burning sensation.

Other Symptoms of Post-Nasal Drip:

• Swollen tonsils
• Sore throat
• Constant need to clear your throat

This condition is usually temporary and can be eased with over-the-counter medications, saline rinses, and staying hydrated.

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Group A streptococci, and it’s a well-known reason for throat pain. If you’ve got a burning sensation along with a sore throat, it’s possible strep is the cause. The infection is spread through droplets in the air, so it’s easy to catch, especially during cold and flu season.

Symptoms of Strep Throat:

• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Red, swollen tonsils with white patches

Since strep throat requires antibiotics, it’s essential to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Commonly known as mono, this contagious infection can also cause a burning sensation in the throat. It’s often mistaken for strep throat due to similar symptoms. Mononucleosis typically leads to swollen tonsils and lymph nodes, which can contribute to throat discomfort.

Other Symptoms of Mono:

• Extreme fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fever

The only cure for mono is rest, plenty of fluids, and over-the-counter medications to ease discomfort.

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a chronic condition that causes a burning sensation in the mouth and throat without an apparent cause. This disorder often leaves individuals with a "scalded" feeling and can come on suddenly or develop gradually over time.

Additional Symptoms of BMS:

• Dry mouth
• Changes in taste
• Increased thirst

Though the cause is often unclear, working closely with a healthcare provider can help manage symptoms and make the condition more bearable.

A peritonsillar abscess is an infection that leads to a build-up of pus behind the tonsils. This condition can cause intense pain and a burning sensation, usually on one side of the throat. Known as quinsy, it often occurs after a case of untreated or severe tonsillitis.

Common Symptoms of a Peritonsillar Abscess:

• Trouble opening the mouth
• Fever
• Voice changes

This condition requires medical intervention, including antibiotics and drainage of the abscess.

While rare, persistent throat burning can sometimes signal throat or esophageal cancer. This pain might be difficult to distinguish from other throat issues, but cancer-related discomfort doesn’t improve over time. It’s essential to monitor additional symptoms to determine if medical evaluation is necessary.

Warning Signs of Throat or Esophageal Cancer:

• Persistent chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Vomiting or coughing up blood

If symptoms last longer than a few weeks or worsen, it’s critical to consult with a healthcare professional.

Taking steps to protect your throat can help prevent that irritating burning sensation. Simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference:

• Avoid smoking: Cigarette smoke contains toxins that irritate the throat.
• Limit exposure to chemicals: Cleaning products and other irritants can harm your throat lining.
• Practice good hygiene: Minimize your chances of catching infections by washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
• Rinse with saline: Nasal rinses can help reduce post-nasal drip.

Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can go a long way in keeping your throat healthy and irritation-free.

If you’re dealing with a burning throat, there are a few remedies that can help soothe the discomfort:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your throat moist and ease the burning sensation.
• Avoid irritants: Stay away from drinks that dehydrate, such as coffee or alcohol.
• Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can prevent dryness in your throat.
• Gargle with saline: For some, saline gargles provide relief, but they may irritate others, so pay attention to how your throat reacts.
• Suck on lozenges: Lozenges can help coat the throat and provide temporary relief.

Resting your voice and staying hydrated can make a big difference when battling throat irritation.

While most burning sensations in the throat are caused by minor illnesses, some symptoms may signal a more serious problem. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• A fever of 101°F or higher
• Difficulty breathing
• Blood in saliva or mucus
• Symptoms lasting several weeks
• Visible pus in the mouth
• Trouble swallowing
• Difficulty opening your mouth
• A lump in the neck or throat

If any of these red flags appear, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.