Fever and sore throat but no runny nose

Fever usually refers to an elevated body temperature. Having a fever and sore throat without nasal discharge may be caused by improper diet, overuse of the voice, environmental factors, acute pharyngitis, or acute tonsillitis. Appropriate measures can be taken depending on the specific cause. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment under the guidance of a doctor.

1. Improper Diet

Consuming excessive spicy or irritating foods—such as chili peppers, Sichuan pepper, fried foods—or drinking too much alcohol can irritate the mucous membranes of the throat, leading to inflammation, fever, and sore throat, without necessarily causing nasal discharge. Adjust your diet by avoiding spicy, irritating foods and excessive alcohol consumption. Eat more light, easily digestible foods such as vegetables, fruits, and porridge, which can help relieve throat discomfort.

2. Overuse of the Voice

Speaking loudly for extended periods, singing, or shouting can fatigue the throat muscles and damage the vocal cords, causing congestion and inflammation of the throat's mucous membranes, resulting in fever and sore throat, typically without nasal discharge. Allow your voice to rest fully—speak less and avoid shouting or prolonged singing. Drink soothing beverages that help moisturize the throat, such as honey water or herbal infusions like *Sterculia lychnophora* (Pangdahai) tea.

3. Environmental Factors

Spending long periods in dry, hot, or heavily polluted environments can cause moisture loss in the throat's mucous membranes, making them fragile and prone to inflammation, leading to symptoms of fever and sore throat without necessarily accompanying nasal discharge. Improve your environment by using a humidifier to increase air moisture, ensuring good indoor ventilation, and avoiding prolonged exposure to high temperatures or polluted air.

4. Acute Pharyngitis

Acute pharyngitis is primarily caused by viral infections, though bacterial infections can also be responsible. Viruses or bacteria invade the mucous membranes of the throat, triggering an inflammatory response that results in fever and sore throat, sometimes without nasal discharge. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may use medications such as amoxicillin capsules, ribavirin granules, or watermelon frost lozenges to alleviate symptoms.

5. Acute Tonsillitis

This condition develops suddenly, with prominent symptoms including severe sore throat, fever, and chills. Body temperature may rise above 39°C. Physical examination often reveals明显 pharyngeal congestion, swollen and inflamed tonsils, and yellowish purulent secretions on the surface. Patients should follow medical advice and take medications such as compound Honeysuckle granules, cefradine capsules, or azithromycin dry suspension for treatment.

During treatment, maintain a light and nutritious diet to support immunity. Include foods such as eggs and fish. Consume more throat-soothing, heat-clearing fruits and vegetables like pears, radishes, and mung beans. Drink plenty of water to keep the throat moist and prevent dryness and pain.