Why does my throat hurt when I wake up? (2024)

Are you waking up with a sore throat in the morning? Here’s what may be causing it and how to prevent it.

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Waking up with a sore throat can be uncomfortable and sometimes confusing. Your first thought might be that you’re sick with a cold or other viral infection even though you have no other symptoms. However, there are various reasons why your throat may hurt when you wake up. They could range from simple factors such as dry air or dehydration to more complex issues like allergies or sleep disorders.

Waking up with a sore throat can be common for many people, and recognizing the possible causes may be helpful for preventing and treating the soreness. Read on to explore some of the potential triggers for morning sore throats and potential ways to manage them.

Causes of a sore throat in the morning

Many people may experience a sore throat at least once a year as a primary symptom of a cold. In fact, up to 80% of sore throats are caused by a viral infection like the common cold. However, this discomfort has several possible causes, ranging from environmental factors to underlying health conditions. Let’s explore some of the potential causes.

Viral and bacterial infections

Infections caused by viruses and bacteria are common culprits behind a sore throat. Viral infections, such as the common cold or the flu, and bacterial infections, such as strep throat, can all start as a tickle in the back of the throat. In both cases, the body’s immune response to the pathogens can lead to inflammation and irritation of the throat. Other symptoms that may occur with a sore throat include fever, cough, runny nose, and headaches.

Allergies

Allergic reactions to substances like pollen, dust, mold, and pet dander can also cause a sore throat. After exposure to these allergens, the body triggers an immune response that can result in inflammation of the airways. This inflammatory response can often cause a sore and scratchy throat. Additional symptoms, like sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion, can also signal year-round or seasonal allergies.

Dry air

Dry air, especially during the winter, can sometimes cause throat irritation. That’s because the lack of moisture in the air can dry the throat. Dry environments during cooler months when the heater is turned on are more likely to cause a dry throat. In some cases, dry heat can also cause other symptoms like an itchy or dry cough. The use of fans or having open windows could worsen problems from dry air.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

GERD is a condition in which acid from the stomach flows back into the esophagus, which can irritate and inflame the throat. This backflow of acid is more common when lying down, as gravity allows stomach acid to travel toward the throat. People with GERD often experience other symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing, especially after meals or during the night.

Sleep apnea and snoring

Sleep apnea and snoring can also contribute to throat discomfort. Sleep apnea, characterized by brief interruptions in breathing during sleep, can lead to mouth breathing, which can dry out the throat. Similarly, snoring can cause irritation due to the vibrations in the throat and vocal cords throughout the night. These conditions may often leave people with a dry and sore throat after waking up.

Postnasal drip

Excessive mucus production, also known as postnasal drip, can cause mucus to drip down the back of the throat. It’s often linked to other symptoms like a chronic cough and nasal congestion. Postnasal drip can be particularly irritating at night or first thing in the morning, as lying down may worsen the feeling of mucus dripping down the throat.

Dehydration

Dehydration may be linked to a sore throat. Not drinking enough water can cause a general state of dryness in the body, including the throat. This lack of moisture can make the throat feel scratchy and uncomfortable.

Air pollution

A sore throat may also develop due to poor air quality. For example, pollutants and irritants in the air may aggravate the airways, including the throat. Those who stay in polluted environments for long periods may be more likely to experience throat pain and discomfort. Urban areas, in particular, often have higher levels of pollution from smoke, smog, or industrial byproducts.

Mouth breathing

Breathing through the mouth during sleep is another common cause of a sore throat. It might develop due to chronic stuffy nose or other factors that block nasal breathing. Mouth breathing can bypass the natural air-moistening effects of the nose and cause a dry, irritated throat.

Chlamydia or gonorrhea

These sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can occasionally lead to a sore throat. There’s a chance chlamydia, or gonorrhea can infect the throat after oral sexual contact with an infected partner. Symptoms of an STI in the throat may include a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or swollen lymph nodes.

Overuse of the vocal cords

Vocal strain or overuse, such as shouting or singing, can lead to a sore throat. This overuse, common in singers, teachers, or those who speak loudly for extended periods, may cause the vocal cords to become irritated and swollen. As a result, it can lead to pain or a hoarse voice.

Smoking

Smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products can irritate and damage the throat lining, leading to a sore throat. The chemicals in smoke can cause chronic inflammation of the throat and increase the risk of more severe conditions like throat cancer.

Drinking alcohol

Drinking alcohol, particularly in large amounts over time, can irritate the mucous membranes in the throat and lead to a dry, sore throat. In addition, alcohol can worsen other throat issues, such as acid reflux, which may further contribute to throat discomfort.

You may want to consult a healthcare provider if you experience a chronic dry throat and are unable to pinpoint where it’s coming from.

Concerns about waking up with a sore throat

In many cases, a sore throat is minor and goes away on its own. However, a persistent sore throat may indicate a more serious issue that warrants medical attention.

If unusual or serious symptoms accompany a sore throat, you may want to consult a healthcare provider. Symptoms that can accompany a sore throat and could indicate a serious health problem include:

  • High fever
  • Nighttime sweats
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Difficulty breathing
  • White spots on the tonsils
  • Rash on the body
  • Severe and persistent pain
  • Hoarseness or loss of voice lasting over two weeks
  • Difficulty swallowing or opening the mouth
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Persistent fatigue or lethargy
  • Body aches or Joint pain
  • Stiff neck or pain when bending the neck forward

These symptoms could mean a more severe condition, such as throat cancer or an HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection, although these diagnoses are rare. In addition, these symptoms could indicate strep throat or another bacterial infection that requires antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Possible complications of a morning sore throat, if left unaddressed or untreated, might include:

  • Increased risk of secondary infections
  • Tonsillitis or other related throat issues
  • Worsening of an underlying health condition

Deciding when to consult a healthcare provider about a morning sore throat will depend on the severity of the symptoms and your overall condition. Occasional sore throats caused by dry air or dehydration typically go away on their own after drinking fluids. However, if the sore throat persists for longer than a week, worsens over time, or occurs with any of the previously mentioned symptoms, it’s best to seek medical advice.

A primary care physician or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can help determine the potential causes of a persistent sore throat and the best way to treat it. If you’re experiencing difficulty breathing or have a high fever, a trip to the emergency room may be necessary.

Preventing morning sore throat

Staying hydrated is one of the key ways to prevent a sore throat in the morning. Drinking enough water throughout the day can help maintain moisture in the throat and reduce the chances of a sore throat. In addition, warm drinks and a steamy shower may provide short-term relief for irritated throats.

The right sleep environment may also help reduce the risk of a morning sore throat. Some practical steps might include:

  • Using a humidifier to increase moisture levels in the air
  • Avoiding irritants such as cigarette smoke and secondhand smoke
  • Sleeping with the head elevated to reduce potential problems caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Regularly cleaning the bedroom or using a HEPA filter to decrease allergens like dust and mold

Taking care of other health-related factors may also help prevent sore throat symptoms. The following are some potential ways to help alleviate or prevent a sore throat based on the underlying cause:

  • Using antihistamines or other allergy medications for allergies
  • Managing GERD with lifestyle changes or medications
  • Using nasal sprays for congestion and postnasal drip
  • Using a CPAP machine for sleep apnea
  • Staying hydrated and using a humidifier for dry air
  • Gargling with salt water or sipping a hot cup of tea for the common cold

With the right preventive measures based on your condition, you can manage and reduce morning sore throat symptoms actively.

Sources

Why does my throat hurt when I wake up? (2024)

FAQs

Why does my throat hurt when I wake up? ›

Postnasal drip occurs when mucus drains down the back of your throat. If it happens at night, it can cause your throat to feel scratchy and sore when you wake up. The accumulation of mucus may also lead to nasal congestion and cause you to breathe through your mouth when you sleep.

How do you stop my throat from hurting when I wake up? ›

You can:
  1. Suck on ice chips or popsicles to soothe your throat. You can also try hard candies or lozenges.
  2. Use a humidifier if there's dry air where you sleep.
  3. Gargle with salt water to curb the itching in your throat.
  4. Drink warm beverages and plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
  5. Use honey to ease coughs for adults.
Jul 12, 2023

What does it mean when your throat hurts only in the morning? ›

The reason of a sore throat can be defined by the type of symptoms you have. This can range from an itchy sensation and painful swallowing to changes in your voice. Throat pain in the morning can be a result of postnasal discharges and reflux from the stomach.

Why does my throat hurt but not sick? ›

Outdoor air pollution and indoor pollution such as tobacco smoke or chemicals can cause a chronic sore throat. Chewing tobacco, drinking alcohol and eating spicy foods also can irritate your throat. Muscle strain. You can strain muscles in your throat by yelling, talking loudly or talking for long periods without rest.

Why is my throat dry and sore when I wake up? ›

People who wake up with a dry mouth or throat are more likely to sleep poorly. Causes of dry throat include specific medications, dehydration, snoring, and reflux. Dry throat remedies include using a humidifier in your bedroom, addressing allergens, and treating conditions like obstructive sleep apnea.

How long does waking up with a sore throat last? ›

The duration of a sore throat depends on what's causing it. An acute sore throat may last a week or so and resolve on its own. Chronic sore throats may linger and require medical attention to address the underlying cause. Most sore throats are the result of common viruses and resolve on their own within 3 to 10 days.

How can I sleep without waking up with a sore throat? ›

Up-to-Date
  1. Run a Humidifier at Night.
  2. Gargle Salt Water.
  3. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Medication.
  4. Try Throat Sprays or Lozenges.
  5. Consume Warm or Cold Liquids.
  6. Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day.
  7. Sleep With Your Head Elevated.
  8. How Getting Good Sleep Can Help You Feel Better.
Jun 6, 2023

How to tell if a sore throat is viral or bacterial? ›

Knowing whether your sore throat is viral or bacterial is usually determined by symptoms. Viral sore throats usually consist of a cough, swelling in the throat, and runny nose whereas bacterial sore throats are typically accompanied with nausea and vomiting, stomach ache, and there is no cough.

What are the symptoms of a throat ulcer? ›

Throat ulcers are ulcers that can form in the throat, esophagus, or voice box. They may cause painful or uncomfortable symptoms, such as a sore throat, pain or difficulty swallowing, and changes in taste or smell.

Why do I wake up with a burning throat? ›

Viruses or strep throat typically cause throat inflammation that can cause a burning sensation. Post-nasal drip, acid reflux, mono, esophagitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis, and gonorrhea can also lead to a burning throat. Rarely, so can throat cancer.

Can a sore throat be nothing? ›

Sore throats are very common and usually nothing to worry about. They normally get better within a week. Most are caused by minor illnesses such as cold or flu and can be treated at home.

Why does my throat hurt but no congestion? ›

A sore or itchy throat can be caused by many things, including allergens like pollen and dust, intolerances to food, or sometimes bacterial infections. The most common culprits are viral infections like influenza.

How to get rid of a sore throat quickly? ›

Sore Throat Relief

Keep your throat moist with lozenges or hard candies. Gargle with warm salt water or use ice chips. Cold liquids or popsicles can numb the pain. Throat sprays and over-the-counter pain relievers can help, too.

Why does the back of my throat hurt when I wake up? ›

Postnasal drip can cause a sore throat in the morning because the mucus from the nasal passages can drain down the back of the throat during the night, leading to irritation and inflammation of the throat. This can make the throat feel scratchy and sore when you wake up in the morning.

What is the white stringy stuff in my mouth when I wake up? ›

What Is It? The white film in your mouth is a condition known as oral thrush. It is an infection caused by the candida fungus, which is a naturally occurring yeast in your body. Usually, this fungus is kept under control by other bacteria, but sometimes mitigating factors can lead it to grow out of control.

How do I stop waking up with dry mouth and sore throat? ›

How to stop waking up with a dry mouth
  1. cutting down on or eliminating coffee and caffeinated sodas.
  2. avoiding tobacco and alcohol.
  3. chewing sugar-free gum.
  4. sucking sugar-free candy.
  5. increasing fluid intake by drinking more water.
  6. being diligent about oral hygiene.
  7. sucking on ice chips.
Jul 7, 2023

How to soothe a dry throat? ›

A dry throat is often a sign of a head cold, dehydration, or sleeping with your mouth open, especially during winter. Effective home treatments include drinking warm liquids, such as broth or hot tea, and sucking on throat lozenges. See a doctor if your symptoms continue or get worse after one week.

What can make your throat hurt overnight? ›

Dehydration can make the throat feel dry and scratchy. During sleep, people go several hours without water, and this can make them more prone to dehydration and a sore throat. The following factors may increase the risk of dehydration at night: not drinking enough water throughout the day.

How to keep your throat moist at night? ›

Sleeping with a humidifier: This adds moisture to the air to prevent the airways and mouth from drying out. Drinking plenty of fluids: Drinking water and other sugarless drinks can keep you hydrated so that you have adequate saliva flow during sleep.

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