Most of us think of chlamydia as the cause of a common sexually transmitted disease--which it is. But, chlamydia bacteria can also cause infections in other areas of the body, including the throat, as noted by both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Merck. Two species of chlamydia have been associated with sore throats: Chlamydia trachomatis and Chlamydia pneumoniae. Chlamydia trachomatis is the bacteria that causes the sexually transmitted disease. The CDC says that oral sex with an infected partner can lead to a throat infection. Chlamydia pneumoniae is not a sexually transmitted disease. It most commonly causes bronchitis or pneumonia, but can also cause pharyngitis (sore throat).
Chlamydia throat infections may not cause symptoms, or they may present in much the same way as any other sore throat. Overall, chlamydia is an uncommon cause of sore throat.
Scratchy Throat
A chlamydia infection can cause a dry, scratchy throat, similar to other types of sore throat.
Painful Swallowing
Painful swallowing is a possible symptom of a chlamydia throat infection. When this symptom is present, solid foods are typically more painful to swallow than liquids.
Painful Talking
Talking--especially when prolonged--may cause throat pain.
Fever
Fever may be present with a chlamydia throat infection, but this symptom may also be absent.
Development of Cough
A cough is not a typical symptom of chlamydia throat infections. However, chlamydia in the throat can spread to the lungs and cause infection. A persistent sore throat with the development of a cough may indicate a chlamydia infection that has spread to the lungs, according to the book "Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases" by Gerald L. Mandell, M.D., John E. Bennett, M.D. and Raphael Dolin, M.D.
Persistence
A chlamydia throat infection may last longer than a typical sore throat. Even if you do not have a fever or cough, you should see a doctor for any sore throat that lasts longer than seven to 10 days, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics on its HealtyChildren.org website. Many conditions can cause a persistent sore throat, including a chlamydia infection.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Chlamydia - Fact Sheet
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Chlamydia Pneumoniae
- Merck Manual: Pharyngitis
- Journal of Medical Microbiology: Aetiology of Acute Pharyngitis, The Role of Atypical Bacteria
- "Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases, Sixth Edition"; Gerald L. Mandell, M.D., John E. Bennett, M.D., Raphael Dolin, M.D., Editors; 2004
