Seeing a positive COVID-19 test result is never a welcome sight, but it seems there’s a new reason to be extra cautious about catching the virus.
COVID infections can lead to all sorts of unpleasant symptoms like fever, fatigue, and congestion. Recently, however, some individuals in China have reported experiencing a notably painful sore throat, which they’ve called “razor blade throat.”
In the U.S., people seem increasingly anxious about this specific symptom, as evident from Google trends showing spikes in searches for terms like “new covid variant painful symptom” and “covid razor throat.”
So, how worried should you really be about a throat that feels like it’s been sliced? Medical professionals provide some insight into this so-called “razor blade” sore throat:
Some people with COVID are reporting a “razor blade throat,” but you don’t need to panic. It’s nothing new.
“Historically, whenever new variants appear, there’s always a wave of curiosity about unique symptoms, but over time, data tends to show that these symptoms were seen in earlier variants too,” explained Dr. William Schaffner, a preventive medicine professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He emphasized that the symptoms associated with the current circulating COVID variants are generally similar to those seen in past variants, though he noted that the recent omicron variants tend to be less severe.
A sore throat isn’t exclusive to the current COVID variants, according to Dr. Carrie Horn, chief medical officer at National Jewish Health in Colorado. She mentioned that this symptom has been linked to COVID for quite some time.
While Dr. Schaffner hadn’t specifically heard of the “razor blade” descriptor, he acknowledged that extreme throat pain has been reported by those with COVID. It’s important to note that not everyone infected will experience this particular symptom. Also, it’s not an alarming new symptom tied to current COVID strains.
According to Dr. Mark Burns, an infectious disease expert, there isn’t a single defining symptom of COVID. A sore throat can occur, but so can fever, cough, and fatigue, among other symptoms. “To put it simply, these symptoms, including a sore throat, really haven’t changed. There’s no escalation in severity,” he added.
Here’s how you can protect yourself from a COVID infection:
COVID tends to spike twice each year—in the winter and again in late summer, Dr. Schaffner noted.
He mentioned that the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices advises individuals at increased risk to get two COVID vaccinations annually—one in the fall and another in the late summer or early fall to combat serious disease during potential surges.
This recommendation particularly concerns those aged 65 and older, individuals with chronic conditions, and people who are pregnant. “Taking precautions like getting an additional dose can help protect us and prevent hospital visits if we do get infected,” Schaffner stated.
Beyond vaccinations, other measures such as wearing a mask in indoor spaces, practicing social distancing, maintaining hand hygiene, and ensuring good ventilation can help shield against COVID and other respiratory viruses, according to Dr. Burns.
If you do get sick, there are treatments available.
If you experience symptoms like a sore throat, fatigue, cough, or fever, it’s wise to test for COVID. If you do test positive, reach out to your physician—especially if you are in a high-risk category, as treatments are available.
It’s crucial to consult with your primary care provider since advice varies based on factors like age and pre-existing conditions. Dr. Horn reminded everyone that COVID is indeed unpleasant. “Over-the-counter medications can help—using Ibuprofen and Tylenol in rotation, if you’re able,” she noted. “There’s really no reason to suffer unnecessarily.”
Hydration is key while sick, even if a sore throat makes it tough. Drinking water and herbal teas can be helpful, as staying hydrated prevents further irritation of dry throat membranes, according to Horn.
“If you are sick, try to limit the spread of germs,” Horn advised. This could mean skipping out on social events and calling in sick to work. If attending is unavoidable, wearing a well-fitting mask becomes crucial.
“Preventing transmission is the best way to keep everyone healthy,” she concluded.
