A burning sensation in the throat can catch you off guard—whether it shows up after a spicy meal, during allergy season, or as part of a cold or flu.
While it’s usually not serious, it can be distracting and uncomfortable. The good news? There are several simple ways to ease the irritation and get back to feeling normal.
Here are some practical ways to soothe that burning feeling and support your throat as it heals:
Common causes:
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Acid reflux or GERD (stomach acid backing up into the throat)
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Post-nasal drip from allergies or a cold
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Spicy or acidic foods
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Throat infections (like viral or bacterial)
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Environmental irritants (smoke, chemicals, dry air)
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Dehydration or excessive throat clearing
What you can do to soothe it:
1. Drink warm fluids
Herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, or warm water with honey and lemon can help coat the throat and reduce irritation.
2. Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water to keep your throat moist and help flush out any irritants or mucus.
3. Take a spoonful of honey
Honey can help coat the throat and has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s especially helpful before bed if your throat burns at night.
4. Avoid trigger foods
If acid reflux is the issue, try avoiding spicy, fried, citrusy, or highly acidic foods for a while.
5. Use a humidifier
Dry air can make your throat feel worse. A humidifier adds moisture to the air and can ease that burning sensation.
6. Try antacids or acid reducers
If you suspect acid reflux, over-the-counter antacids (like TUMS, Pepcid, or omeprazole) can help reduce stomach acid and prevent it from irritating your throat.
7. Gargle with salt water
Mix half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle a few times a day to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation.
When to see a doctor:
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If the burning lasts more than a few days
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If it’s accompanied by fever, swelling, or trouble swallowing
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If you have frequent heartburn or reflux symptoms
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If it feels severe or keeps coming back
