Most people deal with the occasional sore throat, especially during allergy season or after a cold. But what if the soreness doesn’t go away after a week or two? A persistent sore throat could be more than just irritation — it might be a sign of an underlying issue that requires expert care.
At Louisiana ENT Specialists (LENTS), the largest ENT network in Louisiana, our board-certified physicians know when a sore throat is just a minor nuisance and when it signals something more serious. Here are five red flags to watch for if your sore throat isn’t healing.
1. Sore Throat Lasting More Than Two Weeks
If your sore throat lingers beyond two weeks, it’s time to see an ENT. While viral infections usually resolve within days, ongoing throat pain may indicate:
- Chronic sinus drainage irritating the throat
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Persistent bacterial infection
- Growths or abnormalities in the throat or voice box
The sooner we identify the cause, the sooner you can get relief — and rule out more serious conditions.
2. Pain That Spreads to the Ears or Neck
A sore throat that radiates into the ears or causes neck discomfort may point to something more complex than simple irritation. This can occur with:
- Tonsil or throat infections that spread
- Blocked lymph nodes reacting to chronic inflammation
- Throat or tonsil abscesses requiring urgent care
Ear pain without an ear infection is a common warning sign that the problem lies deeper in the throat.
3. Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing
If swallowing feels painful or food gets stuck in your throat, don’t ignore it. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or breathing may signal:
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- Structural narrowing of the throat or airway
- Growths or tumors
Any trouble with swallowing or breathing is a red flag that requires immediate evaluation by an ENT doctor.
4. Voice Changes and Hoarseness
When a sore throat is accompanied by a hoarse or raspy voice that lasts longer than two weeks, it could mean there’s irritation or damage to your vocal cords. Possible causes include:
- Acid reflux (GERD or LPR)
- Vocal cord nodules or polyps
- Infections or chronic inflammation
- Early signs of throat cancer
Even if your voice changes seem minor, prolonged hoarseness should always be evaluated.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss, Fever, or Lump in the Neck
These are some of the most important red flags our doctors look for when evaluating a persistent sore throat. Unexplained symptoms like weight loss, ongoing fever, or a lump in the neck may point to serious conditions such as thyroid disease, lymphoma, or throat cancer. While these are less common, catching them early makes all the difference in treatment outcomes.
When to See an ENT
Not every sore throat is cause for alarm, but when it lingers or is paired with concerning symptoms, expert evaluation is essential. At LENTS, we use advanced diagnostic tools — including laryngoscopy, allergy testing, and imaging — to uncover the cause. From treating infections and reflux to managing chronic conditions or ruling out serious disease, we create personalized treatment plans to restore your health and peace of mind.
The Takeaway
A sore throat that won’t go away isn’t something to ignore. If it lasts more than two weeks, spreads to your ears or neck, affects your swallowing or voice, or comes with other concerning symptoms, it’s time to call an ENT.
Louisiana ENT Specialists has the largest ENT network in the state, with experienced doctors and advanced technology to provide answers and relief. Don’t wait — schedule an appointment today and let our team help you feel better, breathe easier, and stay healthy.
Sources Cited
- American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery – Sore Throats
- Cleveland Clinic – Persistent Sore Throat
- Mayo Clinic - Laryngitis
