Can Throat Infection Cause Nausea?
December 30, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, a throat infection, particularly if it’s accompanied by inflammation and irritation of the throat tissues, can sometimes lead to nausea. Several factors associated with a throat infection may contribute to this symptom:
- Swelling and inflammation: Throat infections, such as tonsillitis or pharyngitis (inflammation of the throat), can cause swelling, redness, and irritation of the throat tissues. The inflammation in the throat area might stimulate the gag reflex, leading to feelings of nausea or an urge to vomit.
- Postnasal drip: Throat infections, especially those accompanied by congestion or sinus drainage, can result in postnasal drip, where mucus drains from the nasal passages down the back of the throat. This sensation can cause irritation and trigger nausea.
- Discomfort and pain: Sore throat or discomfort while swallowing due to the infection can sometimes cause nausea as a secondary response to the discomfort in the throat area.
- Infection-related symptoms: Fever, fatigue, and body aches commonly associated with throat infections might contribute to a general feeling of malaise or queasiness, potentially leading to nausea.
While nausea can be associated with throat infections, it’s important to note that there could be other causes of nausea unrelated to the throat infection. These could include gastrointestinal issues, viral infections affecting the stomach or intestines, motion sickness, medication side effects, stress, anxiety, or other underlying health conditions.
If you’re experiencing persistent or severe nausea along with a throat infection or if you have additional symptoms like difficulty breathing, high fever, severe pain, or dehydration, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment. Treatment for the throat infection itself, such as antibiotics if bacterial, or supportive care like pain relief and rest, can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall comfort.