A positive COVID-19 test is something most people would rather avoid, and now there’s an added reason to try to steer clear of illness.
Infections can bring along nasty symptoms like fever, fatigue, and congestion. Recently, reports from China have highlighted a particularly uncomfortable symptom — a sore throat being referred to as “razor blade throat.”
In the U.S., many seem to share concerns about this painful symptom, as searches for terms like “new COVID variant painful symptom” and “COVID razor throat” have surged, according to Google trends.
How concerned should you be about experiencing such a severe sore throat if you contract COVID? Medical professionals have weighed in on this supposed “razor blade” symptom.
Some individuals with COVID report a “razor blade throat,” but there’s no need to panic — it’s not a new symptom.
“Historically, whenever new variants emerge, questions arise about unique symptoms. But over time, as data accumulates, it usually shows that these symptoms have been seen before,” explained Dr. William Schaffner, a preventive medicine professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He emphasized that current circulating variants tend to cause similar symptoms to those of previous years, although recent omicron variants tend to be less severe.
A very sore throat isn’t exclusive to any new COVID variants, according to Dr. Carrie Horn, chief of hospital and internal medicine at National Jewish Health in Colorado. She noted that the sore throat symptom has been associated with COVID for some time now.
While Dr. Schaffner hadn’t specifically heard of the “razor blade” term, he acknowledged people can experience severe sore throats with COVID.
A sore throat might be described as razor-like by some, but it doesn’t mean everyone will experience it that way, nor does it indicate a new frightening symptom related to current COVID infections.
Dr. Mark Burns, an infectious disease expert at UofL Health, stated there isn’t one definitive COVID symptom. He highlighted that besides sore throat, symptoms can include fever, fatigue, and cough. “In summary, symptoms, including sore throat, don’t differ significantly. There’s also no heightened severity associated specifically with the sore throat,” he said.
Here’s how to protect yourself from COVID infection:
COVID typically sees spikes twice annually, in winter and mid-to-late summer, Schaffner noted.
The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends that those at higher risk for severe COVID should receive two vaccinations yearly. One should ideally be in the fall to combat winter spikes and another now for protection in late summer and early fall.
This advice applies to individuals aged 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with chronic health issues and pregnant people.
“Taking extra precautions and getting that additional dose is advisable, especially since, if infected, it can offer extra protection and help prevent hospitalization,” he added.
Additional protective measures include wearing masks indoors, maintaining social distance, frequent handwashing, and improving ventilation where possible, according to Burns.
If you do get sick, treatments are available.
If you experience COVID symptoms like sore throat, fatigue, cough, or fever, it’s advisable to get tested. Should you test positive, reach out to your doctor, especially if you’re at high risk, since treatments are available, Schaffner advised.
Consulting your primary care provider is crucial, as recommendations will differ based on age and individual risk factors.
Dr. Horn added that COVID can be quite unpleasant. “Over-the-counter medications can help — like alternating ibuprofen with Tylenol if appropriate. You shouldn’t have to suffer,” she explained. “So, take whatever medication you can to ease your symptoms.”
Staying hydrated is equally important, even if you have a painful sore throat. It might feel challenging, but drinking water and herbal teas is essential to prevent dehydration, which can further irritate a dry throat, Horn explained.
“If you’re feeling unwell, it’s best to keep your germs to yourself,” Horn advised. This means it’s wise to cancel any social gatherings and avoid work if possible. If you must go out, wearing a well-fitting mask is crucial. “Preventing transmission is the biggest thing we can do to help keep everyone healthy,” she concluded.
