Sore Throat & Itchy Ears: Causes, Treatment & When It’s Serious

Key takeaways:

• Sore throat and itchy ears may be related to allergies, inflammation, or an infection.
• Home remedies for sore throats and itchy ears, plus keeping the ears dry, may be effective for managing symptoms.
• A sore throat and itchy ears may indicate a serious medical condition affecting the ears, necessitating medical attention.

Itchiness can vary in sensation, but it is generally described as irritating or uncomfortable. Some individuals may describe a sore throat as itchiness instead of pain. Ear discomfort can also vary in its description. Additionally, the throat and ears can feel itchy simultaneously, which may be related. The nose is connected to the throat and ears, contributing to this sensation. Several reasons for experiencing itchiness in these areas include allergies, infections, and other possible external causes. While many home remedies may provide relief, it’s important to consult a doctor for evaluation and treatment if symptoms persist or worsen.

Are sore throats and itchy ears related?

Describing the sensations in your throat and ears can be challenging, as these areas are often affected simultaneously. The head and neck regions are intricately connected, sharing complex pathways linked by their muscles and nerves. Because the linings of your ears, nose, and throat are similar, infections caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies can impact all three areas simultaneously, leading to comparable symptoms.

Common causes of a sore throat and itchy ears experienced together

The throat and ears do not connect directly, unlike how the eustachian tube connects the nose and throat. However, the throat and ears can be affected by similar factors and may exhibit similar symptoms. Additionally, while some causes of a sore throat and itchy ears may differ, they can still occur simultaneously.

Infection

Viral infections are generally more common than bacterial infections in the throat and ears, but both types can occur. The common cold can lead to itchiness, as can strep throat. You might recognize the sensation of itchiness that often begins when a cold starts or when your throat is sore, and you may also experience itchiness in your ears. These sensations are likely related to referred pain, where pain or irritation in one area is felt in another closely connected area. Additionally, if you have a sore throat, such as strep throat, you may also have an ear infection that causes pain or itchiness.

Allergies and hayfever

Allergies can impact a sore throat and cause itchy ears in several ways:

• Hay Fever: During certain seasons, such as spring and fall, you may experience an itchy throat and ears due to pollen, dust, dander, cigarette smoke, or other environmental factors. This condition is often referred to as allergic rhinitis and affects many individuals.
• Environmental Allergies: Some people are more sensitive to specific environmental triggers than others. These triggers can include tree and plant pollens, molds, fungi, dust, and other substances that provoke an immune response.
• Food Allergies: Consuming certain foods or drinks can also trigger an immune response in some individuals. Symptoms may include an itchy throat and ears and, in severe cases, can lead to life-threatening reactions. Common food allergens include shellfish, eggs, milk, wheat, and nuts.
• Drug Allergies: Allergic reactions to medications like penicillin can range from mild to severe or life-threatening.

Snoring, sleep disturbance, and sleep apnea

You may experience snoring or difficulty sleeping well at night for several reasons, all of which can exacerbate a sore throat and itchy ears. Various factors can contribute to your symptoms, including difficulty breathing through your nose, enlarged tonsils, fatigue, or consumption of alcohol before bedtime.

Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)

You might experience heartburn or acid reflux, which is when stomach acid moves up into your esophagus. This acid can cause itchiness, irritation, and a burning sensation in your throat and ears. You may notice that itchiness is more pronounced when lying flat, eating spicy or fried foods, and during times of anxiety or stress.

Other symptoms associated with a sore throat and itchy ears

Along with an itchy sensation in your throat and ears, you may also experience other related symptoms that could stem from various causes. These additional symptoms can provide important clues for reducing your overall discomfort.

Nasal congestion, stuffiness, and drainage

You might be experiencing nasal symptoms caused by the common cold, allergies, sinusitis, or ongoing issues with breathing through your nose. Nasal congestion may be accompanied by drainage, which could be discolored. It is important to note that the color of your mucus does not necessarily indicate a bacterial infection or the need for antibiotics. Post-nasal drainage may cause throat and ear itchiness as well.

Cough

Coughing can result from post-nasal drainage, gastroesophageal reflux, or heartburn. It may also be due to a lung infection, which can lead to difficulty breathing or unusual sounds while breathing.

Headache

A headache may accompany an itchy throat and ears. Headaches can arise from various causes, including allergies, inflammation, and infection. Most people find that headaches can be one of the worst symptoms when they feel unwell.

Fatigue

An itchy throat or ears may accompany a feeling of fatigue. Overexertion, muscle strain, and tiredness from infections or allergies are possible causes.

At-home remedies for relieving a sore throat and itchy ears

There are many home remedies available for an itchy throat and ears, depending on the cause. Most of these remedies are effective, and you may not need to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Throat lozenges or sprays

Throat lozenges or sprays may alleviate your itchy throat and ears. Gargling with warm salt water can help, too. These over-the-counter remedies may offer a cool, soothing sensation. Remember, the benefit from these remedies is temporary and does not offer a cure.

Pain relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, Tylenol, or naproxen can relieve the itchiness associated with a sore throat and ears. These medications help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.

Ear drops and dry ear precautions

Over-the-counter ear drops can help relieve ear itchiness and sore throat. You may have a buildup of earwax or an infection in your ear canal. In some cases, it's advisable to see a doctor for a professional ear cleaning and possibly to get prescription ear drops that contain antibiotics and steroids. If you experience itchy ears, it is important to avoid getting water in them.

When you should see a doctor for a sore throat and itchy ears

When over-the-counter remedies are ineffective, it may be necessary to consult a healthcare professional.

You should see a doctor if:

• Your sore throat worsens or does not respond to at-home treatment.
• Your hearing is impaired.
• You have ear drainage, ringing, or dizziness.
• You have pus or blood in your saliva or the back of your throat.
• You notice a neck mass, enlarged lymph nodes, or drainage from your neck.
• You have a fever of 1010F or higher.

You should go to the emergency room if:

• You experience chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or weakness.
• You have trouble breathing or swallowing.
• You have a racing or irregular heartbeat.
• You experience abdominal pain.
• You are vomiting blood or pus.
• You are experiencing difficulty opening your mouth, along with itchiness in your throat and ear on only one side.

Questions to ask your doctor about a sore throat and itchy ears

• What is causing my throat and ear itchiness?
• Are there tests or X-rays that can be performed to find out why I have throat or ear itchiness?
• Are my symptoms contagious?
• Why do I have dizziness, ringing in my ears, or ear drainage along with my sore throat?

Frequently asked questions: sore throat and itchy ears

There are several reasons you might experience a sore throat and itchy ears. Below are some commonly asked questions about a sore throat and itchy ears.

Can allergies cause a sore throat and itchy ears?

It is possible that you are experiencing environmental allergies, which could lead to a sore throat and itchy ears. Your ears might feel itchy due to exposure to water or certain chemicals or soaps to which you are allergic. It is important to remember to avoid direct water in your ears.

What should you consider if you have a sore throat and itchy ears while pregnant?

Always consult with your obstetrician before taking medications when you are pregnant. The itchiness in your throat or ears may be related to your hormones, allergies, nasal congestion or stuffiness, or a viral or bacterial infection. Make sure you let your doctor know if the sore throat and ear itchiness are accompanied by ear drainage, ringing, loss of hearing, or dizziness.

What if you’re experiencing itchy ears and a sore throat, but only on one side of the throat?

Experiencing itchy ears and a sore throat on just one side can be quite common, especially with a viral infection. However, it could also suggest a more serious issue affecting the back of your throat or tonsils. In such situations, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for guidance. You might be dealing with a collection of pus, an abscess in your throat or neck, or possibly an ear infection.

Final thoughts on sore throat and itchy ears

The combination of a sore throat and itchy ears is quite common. However, if you experience itchiness in your throat or ears, it may indicate a medical condition that requires attention. Trying home remedies can be a good initial step, but if your symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to consult your doctor.

General Medicine follows a strict editorial process, including using real experts to write our articles, vetted primary sources, fact-checking, a secondary medical review, and updates as necessary. This article was medically reviewed and fact checked by Dr. Jennifer Nadel, MD.

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Ebell, M H et al. “The rational clinical examination. Does this patient have strep throat?.” JAMA vol. 284,22 (2000): 2912-8. doi:10.1001/jama.284.22.2912, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11147989/.

Rosenfeld, Richard M et al. “Clinical practice guideline: acute otitis externa.” Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery: official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery vol. 150,1 Suppl (2014): S1-S24. doi:10.1177/0194599813517083, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24491310/.