Some cases of sore throat caused by viruses, acid reflux, allergies, environmental irritants, or sexually transmitted infections may not lead to fever.
Sore throat is the inflammation of the mucous membrane in the pharynx. Approximately 50-80% of sore throats or pharyngitis are caused by viruses such as rhinovirus, influenza, adenovirus, nCoV, and parainfluenza. Additionally, bacterial infections can also cause sore throat, with streptococcal pharyngitis being the most common, which is a throat and tonsil infection caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria.
Typical symptoms of a sore throat can include cough, fever, and throat irritation, but in some cases, a sore throat may not cause fever.
Common Cold
The common cold is a general term for a variety of infections caused by viruses and bacteria, characterized by symptoms such as nasal congestion and sore throat. In cases of the common cold, patients may also experience sneezing, runny nose, and fatigue, but typically do not have a fever.
Typical symptoms of sore throat can include cough, fever, and throat irritation…
Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is a condition that develops due to swelling in the tonsils (the tissue masses located at the back of the throat). The tonsils are part of the lymphatic system, aiding in the removal of waste and infections from your body. Tonsillitis is most common in children and is often caused by bacteria or viruses. Fever may or may not occur with tonsillitis.
Tonsillitis can cause difficulty or pain when swallowing, a white or yellow coating on the tonsils, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, and bad breath. Viral tonsillitis typically resolves quickly without treatment, while bacterial tonsillitis may require antibiotics. Recurrent cases of tonsillitis may sometimes be treated with a tonsillectomy.
Acid Reflux
You may also experience a sore throat if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In severe or chronic cases of GERD, stomach acid can flow back up into the esophagus, irritating the mucous membrane of the throat. If this issue persists for too long, it can even lead to permanent changes in the tissue of your esophagus (Barrett’s esophagus).
Doctors may recommend dietary changes, weight loss, and medications to help manage your stomach acid production and reflux.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
A sore throat may not be the first symptom you think of when considering sexually transmitted infections, but any type of bacteria or virus transmitted sexually can enter the mouth.
These infections are often spread through oral sex and can develop without any symptoms. A sore throat may also arise with these infections, though it is not common.
Using oral protection, such as dental dams during oral sex, can help prevent transmission.
Allergies
Allergies can also cause a sore throat without a fever. Seasonal allergies to substances like pollen can irritate the nose and throat, leading to post-nasal drip.
There is no cure for allergy-related sore throat. Instead, doctors will manage symptoms, such as runny nose or sore throat during allergic reactions, with antihistamines and other allergy medications.
Environmental Irritants
Besides allergens, there are other substances you may inhale that can irritate the throat, causing pain or inflammation. These include air pollution, smoke, and other chemicals.
If you are using strong chemicals that may be inhaled, wearing a mask is advisable. Supportive care and avoiding irritants are the best ways to manage these types of sore throats.
