With winter arriving, cold and flu are the most common diseases of this season. But this winter is different since we have the COVID-19 pandemic along with it. With that being said, we know that doctors and healthcare experts have confirmed that COVID-19 and cold and flu have similar symptoms that are fever, cough, fatigue, and sore throat. COVID-19 Sore throat is one of the major concerns of the public. Sore throats are common in winter seasons and with the COVID-19 pandemic going on, it worries people of having the virus. But people need to understand that sore throat alone is not a sign of having the coronavirus. Sore throats are caused not only by the COVID-19 virus but also other infections such as common cold, seasonal allergies, pollen reaction, or environmental factors such as dry air. 

How does a sore throat feel like?

When a virus or infection enters the membranes associated with the nose and throat, they turn them swell. This makes the throat feel dry and itchy or have a mild burning sensation, painful strains which can get worse when swallowing water or food. Sometimes, a hoarse or muffled voice, developing white patches (seen only clinically) can be detected. 

Random sore throat VS COVID-19 sore throat

According to doctors, there is no real difference between a COVID-19 sore throat and a random sore throat. However, one thing to remember is that sore throat in other diseases will occur earlier in the process, whereas the throat of COVID-19 will occur along with pre-dominating symptoms such as fever, fatigue, dry cough etc. So if you are experiencing pain only in the throat area, it is probably an allergy or reaction to weather change or some other disease. 

Treatments for sore throats

Random sore throats can be treated by a number of medications or home remedies. Drinking lots of water throughout the day and gargling with salt water is a must-use solution to relieve the itching, pain, and scratchiness.  

It is important to test for safety

One must always stay pre-cautious and vigilant. If the sore throat is not treated using the home remedies or medications, in one or two days, it is important to get yourself tested as quickly as possible to eliminate any chance of risk.

If you are scared and doubtful about your symptoms, it is good to talk to a doctor about your worries. A sore throat may feel very painful and unpleasant with COVID-19 or with any other infections.  Although self-medication is not recommended at all, it can alleviate some of your symptoms and put you at ease by taking support from some over the counter medications.