Recurrent throat pain without fever may be acid reflux, not an infection

Throat pain is usually thought to be caused by infections, like viruses or bacteria. Many people immediately take antibiotics when their throat hurts, thinking it is infected. But doctors are now seeing that a growing number of young adults experience repeated throat pain without fever. In many cases, the real cause is acid reflux, a condition often mistaken for repeated throat infections.

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back into the throat and irritates it. This type of throat irritation is medically called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Unlike normal acid reflux, it may not always cause heartburn, so many patients assume their symptoms are due to infection and use antibiotics unnecessarily.

Causes and symptoms of throat pain due to acid reflux

Acid reflux–related throat pain often affects people in their 20s and 30s. Dr Narendranath A, ENT consultant at Fortis Hospital, explains that LPR occurs when acid from the stomach frequently touches the throat and vocal cords, causing discomfort.

Common symptoms of acid reflux–related throat pain include:

• Persistent sore throat that does not go away

• Feeling of a lump or foreign body in the throat

• Frequent throat clearing

• Hoarseness or change in voice

• Intense throat pain in severe cases

A key point to note is that these symptoms occur without infection signs. There is no fever, runny nose, cold, or body aches. Symptoms often worsen after meals, at night, or early in the morning, especially if someone lies down soon after eating.

The main reason acid reflux develops in younger adults is lifestyle and diet. Irregular meal timings, late-night eating, and frequent consumption of spicy or outside food can increase the risk. Other factors include:

• Excessive caffeine intake

• Smoking and alcohol consumption

• High stress levels

• Poor sleep habits

• Spending long hours on digital screens

All these factors can trigger acid reflux and make throat irritation worse.

ALSO READ: Over 58 lakh names deleted in Bengal: What 2019, 2021 and 2024 data reveal about the state’s political trajectory

ALSO READ: Smart spending, smart growth: Harnessing public expenditure for India’s future

Treatment and lifestyle changes

Unlike infections, acid reflux–related throat pain does not need antibiotics. The main approach is to manage lifestyle and diet. Some helpful tips include:

• Eat meals at regular times and avoid skipping meals

• Reduce spicy, oily, or junk food intake

• Avoid late-night dinners and eating out frequently

• Stay upright after meals; do not lie down immediately

• Sleep with the head slightly elevated to prevent acid from flowing back

Stress can also trigger reflux, so yoga, meditation, and relaxation exercises are highly recommended. In some cases, doctors may prescribe anti-reflux medications to reduce stomach acid and give the throat a chance to heal.

Recognising that acid reflux is the cause of persistent throat pain is important. This helps avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics and ensures that patients receive the correct treatment. With proper lifestyle changes, stress management, and medication when needed, symptoms often improve significantly.