Nose and Throat: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Nose and Throat?
An otolaryngologist, usually called an ENT doctor, treats conditions of the ear, nose, and throat, including chronic sinus infections, nasal polyps, tonsil trouble, and voice or swallowing disorders. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
The nose and throat are part of the upper airway, the passage that carries air into your lungs. The nose warms, moistens, and filters the air you breathe, and the throat connects the nose and mouth to the voice box and windpipe. Because they sit close together, a problem in one often affects the other: a stuffy nose can cause a sore throat from mouth breathing, and postnasal drip can trigger coughing.
Symptoms
Nose and throat problems often come on with a cold and improve within a week or two. Common signs include:
- A stuffy or runny nose.
- Pain or pressure in the face.
- A sore throat or scratchy feeling when swallowing.
- Hoarseness, a rough or weak voice.
- A cough that may worsen when lying down.
- Snoring or trouble breathing through the nose.
- Loss of smell or reduced taste.
Causes and who gets it
Most nose and throat problems are caused by viruses, such as those that cause colds and flu. Bacteria, allergies, acid reflux, smoking, and dry air can also irritate these areas. People with weak immune systems, asthma, or frequent germ exposure get them more often.
How doctors diagnose it
A doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine your nose, throat, and ears. A quick throat swab can check for strep throat. For recurring problems, an ENT doctor may use a thin, flexible camera called a nasal endoscope to look inside the nose.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. Viral infections usually improve with rest, fluids, saline rinses, and over-the-counter medicines. Bacterial infections like strep throat need antibiotics, while allergies may be managed with antihistamines or nasal sprays. Chronic sinusitis may need prescription medicines or surgery.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if symptoms last more than about ten days, keep getting worse, or keep coming back. Get care quickly if you have trouble breathing, cannot swallow liquids, a high fever, severe face pain, or a stiff, severe sore throat with drooling. A hoarse voice lasting more than two or three weeks should also be checked.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor is paid a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can treat colds, mild allergies, and simple sore throats, order strep tests, and prescribe medicines, and will refer you to an ENT specialist if needed.
Common questions
Do I need antibiotics for a sore throat?
Most sore throats are caused by viruses, which antibiotics do not help. A doctor can do a quick swab test to check for strep throat, which is bacterial and does need antibiotics.
Why do I keep getting sinus infections?
Repeat sinus infections can be linked to allergies, nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or swelling that blocks the sinuses and traps mucus. An ENT doctor can suggest longer-term treatment.
Can allergies cause a sore throat?
Yes. Allergies can cause postnasal drip, mucus dripping down the back of the throat and causing irritation. Treating the allergies often eases the throat symptoms too.
Is a hoarse voice serious?
Hoarseness is often caused by a cold, shouting, or acid reflux. If it lasts more than two or three weeks, a doctor should check the voice box.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
