Does eating ice cream worsen a sore throat? Doctor explains

Dr. Alina Azizova stated that there is no conclusive evidence that eating ice cream causes harm when suffering from a sore throat, noting that the coldness may temporarily help relieve pain during swallowing.

She explained, as reported by Russia Today, that when experiencing a sore throat, the inflamed tissues can swell and become more sensitive and painful. Cooling the mucous membrane may temporarily reduce the sensitivity of nerve endings, making swallowing easier. However, this effect is limited to symptom relief and does not constitute a cure.

She added that if a patient feels better after eating ice cream, there is no need to avoid it, but it is preferable to choose a soft type without hard additives that could irritate a sensitive throat. It is important to understand that ice cream does not treat sore throats, nor does it affect the viruses or bacteria causing the condition, and there is no evidence it worsens the infection.

Dr. Azizova advised that if cold foods increase pain or discomfort, patients should opt for foods at a suitable temperature and try other ways to relieve symptoms.

She added that if there is a high fever, severe pain when swallowing, tonsillitis, or difficulty swallowing, it is essential to consult a doctor to determine the cause and choose the appropriate treatment.