Dont dismiss that nagging sore throat—your otolaryngologist explores its rare connection to breathing problems

Sat, 02 May 2026 14:35:35 +0000

Don’t Dismiss That Nagging Sore Throat—Your Otolaryngologist Explores Its Rare Connection to Breathing Problems A sore throat every now and then is perfectly normal—especially with seasonal colds or allergies. But what happens when that nagging discomfort lingers, becoming more persistent or severe? Unlike the usual viral throat irritation, what if that sore throat is signaling something deeper—something often overlooked, yet closely tied to breathing difficulties? An otolaryngologist explains why ignoring a persistent sore throat could be more than just a minor annoyance, and how it may connect to hidden respiratory issues. ### The Surprising Link Between Sore Throat and Breathing While most sore throats result from viral infections, a prolonged or chronic sore throat—especially when paired with breathing concerns—can indicate underlying conditions affecting the upper airway, sinuses, or throat structures. Otolaryngologists, or ENT specialists, recognize that throat symptoms sometimes stem from or worsen breathing problems like sleep apnea, chronic sinusitis, or vocal cord dysfunction.