New Concerns About COVID Symptoms: The “Razor Blade Throat”

Seeing a positive COVID-19 test result is never a good feeling—yet, there may be additional reasons to steer clear of falling ill.

COVID can bring on a slew of unpleasant symptoms like fever, fatigue, and congestion. Recently, an alarming new symptom has emerged from China: a sore throat being referred to as “razor blade throat.”

People in the U.S. are catching wind of this concerning symptom, with Google trends showing a spike in searches for terms like “new covid variant painful symptom” and “covid razor throat.”

So, how worried should we be about experiencing this intense sore throat if we get COVID? Doctors have weighed in on what the “razor blade” sore throat means.

It’s Not New, So Don’t Panic

Dr. William Schaffner, a preventive medicine professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, points out that whenever new variants arise, questions about specific symptoms often follow. Yet, over time, it seems those symptoms are not particularly unique—many have been seen in previous variants as well.”

In fact, Dr. Schaffner notes that the symptoms from current circulating variants are similar to those seen in earlier COVID strains, with the recent Omicron variants being less severe.

Dr. Carrie Horn, chief medical officer at National Jewish Health, adds that a sore throat isn’t something new for COVID patients. It’s been a common complaint for quite some time now. Although Dr. Schaffner hadn’t specifically heard of a “razor blade” sore throat, he was aware of severe sore throats among COVID patients.

While some may experience a throat pain that could indeed feel razor-like, it doesn’t mean every COVID case will involve this symptom, nor is it a novel development with the latest strains.

Dr. Mark Burns, an infectious disease expert, reminds us that there’s no definitive COVID symptom that marks an infection. A sore throat may pop up along with other symptoms like fever and fatigue, but it’s just one part of a larger picture.

“In summary, the symptoms are not fundamentally different from what we’ve seen before—there’s no heightened intensity when it comes to the sore throat,” Dr. Burns noted.

How to Protect Yourself from COVID

COVID tends to spike twice a year, during winter and mid-to-late summer, according to Dr. Schaffner. For individuals at higher risk, the CDC recommends getting two COVID vaccinations annually—one in the fall to counter winter increases and another in the present timeframe for protection during late summer and early fall.

This applies particularly to those aged 65 and older, younger people with chronic conditions, and pregnant individuals. Dr. Schaffner emphasizes that getting an additional dose provides critical protection against severe illness.

In addition to vaccinations, there are other protective measures: wearing masks indoors, keeping distance from others, frequently washing hands, and enhancing ventilation whenever possible, as highlighted by Dr. Burns.

Available Treatments if You Get Sick

If you experience COVID-like symptoms—sore throat, fatigue, cough, or fever—consider testing for COVID. If the test is positive, especially if you’re at high risk, it’s wise to contact your healthcare provider as there are treatment options available.

Also, it can be beneficial to speak with your primary care physician since recommendations may vary based on your age and health status.

Dr. Horn notes that COVID is indeed an unpleasant illness. Some over-the-counter meds, like alternating Ibuprofen and Tylenol, can ease the discomfort. “There’s really no reason to suffer,” she adds, encouraging people to take appropriate medication for symptom relief.

Staying hydrated is crucial too—even if a sore throat makes drinking feel burdensome. Water or herbal teas are essential to prevent further irritation of dry membranes, as Dr. Horn explains.

Finally, if you are sick, it’s best to keep your germs to yourself. Canceling plans and calling in sick is advisable, and if you must be around others, wearing a well-fitted mask is crucial.

“Preventing transmission is the most important thing we can do to keep everyone healthy,” Dr. Horn concludes.