What causes a sore throat due to excessive internal heat ("Shanghuo"), and what should I do?
May 08, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, sore throat caused by excessive internal heat may be due to insufficient water intake, dry environment, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, epiglottitis, or other related causes. Treatment may include general care and medication under a doctor's guidance. If symptoms persist or worsen, prompt medical attention is recommended. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene, such as brushing teeth in the morning and evening and rinsing the mouth after meals, is important in daily life.
Generally, sore throat caused by excessive internal heat may be due to factors such as insufficient water intake, dry environment, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, epiglottitis, and others. Treatment options include general care and medications under a doctor's guidance. If symptoms persist or worsen, timely medical attention is advised. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Insufficient Water Intake
When water intake is inadequate, dehydration may occur, causing reduced moisture in the mucous membranes of the throat. Dry mucous membranes become fragile and are more susceptible to external irritants, leading to inflammation and sore throat. It is important to develop the habit of drinking water regularly throughout the day, aiming for 1500-2000 milliliters daily, including water, mild tea, and other non-caffeinated beverages.
2. Dry Environment
Remaining in a dry environment for prolonged periods, such as air-conditioned rooms or heated indoor spaces during winter, can cause moisture loss from the throat's mucous membranes, making them dry and vulnerable, which may lead to sore throat. Using a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity can help alleviate this condition.
3. Pharyngitis
Pharyngitis can be triggered by various factors, including exposure to dust, chemical gases, allergens, and other irritants. When pharyngitis occurs, the mucous membrane in the throat becomes inflamed. Inflammatory factors stimulate nerve endings, resulting in throat pain. Additional symptoms may include a foreign body sensation in the throat, dry cough, and throat itching. Patients may use medications such as compound borax mouthwash, cetidine tablets, and pharyngitis tablets under medical guidance.
4. Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is primarily caused by bacterial or viral infections. When pathogens invade the tonsils, an inflammatory response occurs, leading to the symptoms described above. Patients may also experience fever, chills, and other systemic symptoms. Under medical advice, patients may take antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules, cefixime dispersible tablets, and roxithromycin capsules for anti-infective treatment.
5. Epiglottitis
Infections, allergies, trauma, and other factors may trigger epiglottitis. Once the epiglottis is affected by inflammation, it can rapidly swell, compressing surrounding tissues and causing throat pain. Symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and breathing difficulties may also occur. Patients need to use medications such as ceftriaxone sodium for injection, dexamethasone injection, and budesonide suspension for inhalation under medical supervision.
In daily life, attention should also be given to oral hygiene, cultivating good habits such as brushing teeth in the morning and evening and rinsing the mouth after meals to reduce bacterial growth in the oral cavity. Regular exercise helps strengthen the body's immunity and reduce the likelihood of illness.
