It can start slowly, but before you know it, you have the dreaded combination of a stuffy nose, pressure between the eyes, and a scratchy, uncomfortable throat. Sinus infections can bring about a host of unpleasant symptoms.
If you’re wondering if a sinus infection can cause a sore throat, the answer is yes—a sore throat is definitely one of the symptoms of a sinus infection. But why do sinus issues lead to a miserable sore throat, and what can you do to feel better?
What’s Happening In Your Sinuses When They Get Infected
Your sinuses are basically air-filled cavities inside your skull. When your sinuses are healthy and infection-free, they’re lined with a thin layer of mucus that helps trap dust, allergens, and other particles you breathe in.
Healthy sinuses allow mucus to drain away naturally, usually without you even noticing. But when a sinus infection (medically known as sinusitis) sets in, the lining of your sinuses becomes inflamed, making it harder for mucus to drain properly. This leads to a buildup of mucus and pressure in your sinus cavities.
Why You May End Up With A Sore Throat During A Sinus Infection
So, how do your sinuses connect to a sore throat? It’s all about the post-nasal drip. When your sinuses are blocked, mucus can’t flow freely out of your nasal passages. This leads to more mucus draining down the back of your throat instead.
This continuous trickle of mucus is known as post-nasal drip, and it can be both annoying and irritating. Over time, this constant flow can inflame the delicate tissues in your throat, leading to that scratchy, raw, or achy feeling.
If you’re dealing with sinusitis, you’re probably also breathing through your mouth a lot due to nasal congestion. Mouth breathing dries out your throat (especially when you sleep), which can cause more intense soreness and discomfort.
Signs Your Sore Throat May Be Sinus-Related
If you’re not sure whether your sore throat is related to a sinus infection or just a common cold, there are some other symptoms that typically tag along with sinusitis, including:
- Persistent nasal congestion or stuffiness
- Facial pressure or pain, especially around the eyes and cheeks
- Thick, yellow or green nasal discharge
- Headaches that worsen when bending over, standing up, etc.
- Dizziness
- A general “foggy” feeling
- Reduced sense of smell or taste
While you can have a sore throat with a common cold, facial pressure and specific patterns of nasal drainage—especially when they’re long-lasting—point toward sinusitis symptoms.
What You Can Do To Feel Better
The good news is that there are steps you can take to ease a sore throat caused by a sinus infection:
- Hydrating with warm beverages like tea and broth-based soups can help soothe the irritation.
- A saline nasal rinse can help clear the nasal passages and reduce post-nasal drip.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers and throat lozenges can also provide temporary relief.
If your symptoms last more than a week or two—or if they worsen over time—it may be time to schedule an appointment with your doctor.
When To See An Expert
Chronic sinus infections can really disrupt your day-to-day life. If you’re constantly struggling through another round of sinusitis, it may be time to see a specialist. Ear, nose, and throat doctors, like Dr. David Santos, can help you discover and correct the root cause of your sinus infections.
Find Relief From A Sinus-Related Sore Throat At Sinusitis In Seattle
If that irritating sore throat just won’t let up, it might be a sign of an underlying sinus problem that needs professional care. At Sinusitis in Seattle, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating sinus issues to help you feel your best and regain control of your daily life.
Led by Dr. Santos, we provide a comprehensive approach that’s focused on your comfort and long-term health and are dedicated to finding the right solution for you. Whether the best thing for you is medication, a minimally invasive procedure, or more advanced treatments—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Don’t let sinus infections keep you from fully living your life. If you’re tired of dealing with sore throats and other frustrating symptoms, schedule a consultation with us at Sinusitis in Seattle by calling (206) 242-3696 or booking your appointment today through our website.
