Sore throat



Question:

I am a part time teacher and mother of three. I find that after only a short time of speaking to a class, reading to my child or talking to other mothers my throat becomes tight and sore. The ENT says my throat is red, but clear. I often have blocked sinuses and suspected rhinitus. Could sore throat and tightness be due to something muscular?

Answer:

If there is redness, it is likely related to your congestion, post nasal drip and the resulting inflammation. You might be creating muscular tension either from trying to push through or from trying to avoid the symptoms. You would be able to determine this in a session with a voice professional and, if there is muscular tension, you could get some exercises to release it. Since your doctor has diagnosed the symptoms, you should be able to get a referral to a speech specialist who is covered by your insurance. You can also use a very mild saline solution to irrigate your nasal passages and to gargle. I would also recommend steaming as it will not only clear the respiratory passages but will also increase circulation which carries away irritants and relieves the inflamed tissues.