Throat Pain in North Texas

A sore throat usually feels like irritation or rawness at the back of the throat. If you have throat pain, it can be difficult or painful to eat, talk, or swallow. Common causes of throat pain include strep throat, tonsillitis, mononucleosis, or other viral or bacterial infections, especially when throat pain is accompanied by a fever. Sometimes, throat pain is a result of allergies, acid reflux, or a strained voice. While throat pain can go away on its own, you may need to seek medical care if you have persistent throat pain that does not resolve within a few days. The experienced team at Cross Timbers ENT can diagnose and treat throat and voice problems at all three of our North Texas facilities. Book an appointment in Arlington, Mansfield, or Midlothian, TX.

Throat pain is diagnosed during a visit to Cross Timbers ENT. After learning about your symptoms and medical history, your doctor will perform an examination of your ears, nose, and throat. Sometimes, additional diagnostic tests are needed, such as the doctor using an endoscope to view your throat and voice box, allergy testing, throat culture tests, or medical imaging. Depending on your diagnosis, we can provide the best course of treatment to alleviate throat pain. If you have a bacterial infection (like tonsillitis), antibiotics may be prescribed. In other cases, antihistamines could be given. If you have laryngitis, you may need a round of corticosteroids. If it appears that reflux is the cause, anti-reflux medications may be started. You may get some additional relief by taking self-care steps, such as resting, using throat sprays or lozenges, drinking fluids, and sipping herbal tea with honey.

When should I seek medical attention for throat pain?

You should seek medical attention if your throat pain lasts more than a week, is severe, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, difficulty swallowing, swollen lymph nodes, or hoarseness lasting more than two weeks. Throat pain that recurs frequently or is associated with breathing difficulties should also be evaluated by our team at Cross Timbers ENT.

Can allergies cause throat pain?

Yes, allergies can cause throat pain, particularly if you're exposed to allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander. These allergens can irritate the throat and lead to inflammation or postnasal drip, which may cause a sore or scratchy sensation. Allergy management and avoiding exposure to allergens can help reduce throat pain.

How can I prevent throat pain?

Preventing throat pain involves practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick. Staying hydrated, avoiding smoking and other irritants, and managing conditions like allergies or acid reflux can also help prevent throat discomfort.

If you need treatment for persistent throat pain, contact the team at Cross Timbers ENT. Our highly trained specialists can provide a diagnosis for throat pain along with personalized care to help you gain relief. We offer telehealth and in-person appointments at our locations in Arlington, Mansfield, and Midlothian, TX.