What should you know about ear infection and sore throat?

An ear infection and sore throat may share an upper airway infection, but severe symptoms need medical assessment. The throat, nose, and middle ear are connected, so congestion and inflammation can create pressure, referred pain, or difficulty swallowing.

A [Common Cold](/conditions/common-cold/) or [Influenza](/conditions/influenza/) can cause throat irritation, fever, congestion, and ear pressure. [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/) may produce post-nasal drip without an infection. Marked throat pain with swollen neck glands may occur with [Strep Throat](/conditions/strep-throat/), [Tonsillitis](/conditions/tonsillitis/), or [Glandular Fever](/conditions/glandular-fever/). Hoarseness or a burning throat can also be related to [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/). A sore throat does not by itself show that the ear is infected.

Rest, drink regularly, and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Warm fluids or a salt-water gargle may soothe the throat. Use pain relief only as directed and check suitability if you are pregnant, treating a child, or taking other medicines. Avoid smoking and do not put objects or unprescribed drops into the ear. A clinician can examine both the throat and ear before deciding on treatment.

Arrange prompt review for worsening ear pain, persistent fever, pus from the ear, new hearing reduction, or symptoms that are not settling. Seek emergency help for difficulty breathing or swallowing saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, severe one-sided throat swelling, neck swelling, confusion, or dehydration. Respiratory symptoms with fever may also require assessment for [COVID-19](/conditions/covid-19/).

Ask whether the eardrum, tonsils, and throat suggest infection, whether a throat test is appropriate, and which pain relief is suitable. Ask how to recognise dehydration or breathing difficulty and when you should return if symptoms worsen.