Throat Discomfort After Deep Kissing: Causes and Concerns

Throat infection issues related to deep kissing?

Hello Doctor: About a month ago, I had a brief deep kissing encounter with a sex worker.
The next day, I felt a dryness in my throat, and on the following day, I noticed a slight phlegm when swallowing.
By the third day, the dryness returned, and since then, I have felt a persistent warmth in my throat, although I have not experienced any other issues.
Swallowing is not difficult or painful, and there is no sensation of a foreign body, nor do I have a cough, sneezing, or runny nose.
A few weeks later, this sensation disappeared, but in the past few weeks, the warm feeling in my throat has returned, especially noticeable in the mornings.
I usually snore quite heavily; could this be the cause? However, I have always snored.
After researching online, I feel it is unlikely to be a sexually transmitted infection, but I am hesitant to see a doctor for fear it might be COVID-19.
Sometimes, I think it might be psychological, but there is indeed a slight warmth in my throat, and this condition persists.

Wenwen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/04

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on your description, it is unlikely that you have a sexually transmitted infection.
As for COVID-19, I recommend purchasing a rapid test kit to confirm your status; if the result is negative, the likelihood of infection is low.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2022/04/04

More Info

When it comes to throat discomfort following deep kissing, particularly after an encounter with a sex worker, several factors could be at play. Your experience of a dry throat and a sensation of warmth, especially upon waking, can be attributed to various causes, including environmental factors, potential infections, and even psychological influences.

Firstly, it’s important to note that deep kissing can transmit certain infections, including viral and bacterial pathogens. While the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) through kissing is generally lower than through other forms of sexual activity, it is not zero. For instance, herpes simplex virus (HSV) can be transmitted through oral contact, and if the partner has an active outbreak, even if it is not visible, there is a risk. Other infections, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) or Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), can also be transmitted through saliva.

However, your symptoms—dryness and a warm sensation in the throat—could also be linked to non-infectious causes. For example, sleeping with your mouth open, which can occur if you snore, may lead to dryness in the throat. This is particularly relevant if you have a history of snoring, as it can exacerbate throat irritation. Additionally, environmental factors such as dry air, especially during winter months or in air-conditioned spaces, can contribute to throat discomfort.

Another possibility is that your throat discomfort could be related to allergies or irritants in your environment. Dust, pollen, or even smoke can cause irritation, leading to sensations of dryness or warmth. If you have recently experienced changes in your environment, such as moving to a new location or spending more time in a particular area, this could be a contributing factor.

Psychological factors should also be considered. Anxiety about potential infections or health issues can manifest physically, leading to heightened awareness of bodily sensations. If you are preoccupied with the idea of having contracted an infection, this could amplify your perception of discomfort in your throat.

Given that your symptoms have persisted intermittently for over a month, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They can conduct a thorough examination, possibly including a throat swab or other tests, to rule out infections or other underlying conditions. It’s important to address any concerns you may have about COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses, especially if you have experienced any additional symptoms such as fever or fatigue.

In summary, while the throat discomfort you are experiencing could be related to your encounter, it is essential to consider a broader range of potential causes, including environmental factors, snoring, allergies, and psychological influences. Seeking medical advice will provide clarity and help ensure that any necessary treatment is administered. Remember, it’s always better to address health concerns proactively rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.

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