What Can Cause Concurrent Sore Throat and Diarrhea?

Having diarrhea together with a sore throat commonly points to a viral illness. Influenza, the common cold, and COVID-19 are examples of infections that can produce both symptoms.

Each symptom on its own — sore throat or diarrhea — can arise from many different causes. When they appear together, an infectious cause is often likely.

Less commonly, noninfectious factors can produce both diarrhea and throat pain.

Keep reading to find out why you might be experiencing both symptoms.

What can cause sore throat and diarrhea together?

Below are several explanations for experiencing a sore throat alongside diarrhea.

Flu

Influenza viruses cause the flu. Typical signs include:

• fever
• cough
• headache
• muscle aches
• sore throat
• runny nose
• general malaise
• fatigue

The flu can also produce gastrointestinal symptoms such as:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea

Adenovirus infection

Adenoviruses frequently cause respiratory illnesses. They typically provoke flu-like symptoms that begin 2–14 days after exposure and can also cause diarrhea and intestinal inflammation.

COVID-19

SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, has been linked to many manifestations, including sore throat and diarrhea. Other frequent symptoms include:

• fever and chills
• cough
• shortness of breath
• fatigue
• body aches
• nausea and vomiting
• nasal congestion
• runny nose
• loss of taste or smell
• headache

Common cold

The common cold is most often due to rhinoviruses. A sore throat is frequently the first symptom.

Diarrhea is not typical with a cold, but it can occur.

Other viruses that cause cold-like illnesses include:

• coronaviruses
• parainfluenza viruses
• respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Norovirus

Noroviruses are a common culprit for illnesses often called “stomach flu” or “stomach bug.” Symptoms typically begin 12–48 hours after exposure and usually include:

• diarrhea
• vomiting
• nausea
• abdominal pain

Norovirus infections may indirectly cause a sore throat via dehydration and repeated vomiting.

Stomach flu

Noroviruses are a frequent cause of stomach flu. Other agents include:

• rotaviruses
• adenoviruses
• astroviruses

Strep throat

Strep throat commonly presents with a painful throat. Diarrhea is not a usual feature, though it can result as a side effect of antibiotics prescribed to treat the infection.

Food allergy

Food allergies can cause symptoms such as:

• tingling or itching in the mouth
• hives
• swelling of the throat, lips, or face, which can contribute to throat discomfort
• wheezing
• nasal congestion
• abdominal pain
• diarrhea
• nausea and vomiting
• dizziness

Food poisoning

Foodborne illness often produces diarrhea and vomiting. Repeated vomiting can lead to throat soreness.

Acute gastritis

Acute gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, frequently from infection. Diarrhea may be an early symptom, and vomiting can irritate the throat.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Diarrhea is a common symptom in IBS. Research indicates gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common among people with IBS, and GERD can irritate the throat.

Dehydration

Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which causes a dry throat. A dry, irritated throat is more susceptible to damage and soreness.

Mixed causes

It’s also possible that your sore throat and diarrhea stem from different causes, such as simultaneous infections.

Sore throat and diarrhea alongside other symptoms

Below are possible explanations when sore throat and diarrhea are accompanied by additional symptoms.

Sore throat, diarrhea, and fever or fatigue

• flu
• adenoviruses
• COVID-19
• common cold
• norovirus
• stomach flu

Stomach cramps, diarrhea, sore throat, and headache

The combination of stomach cramps, diarrhea, sore throat, and headache may be caused by:

• flu
• adenoviruses
• COVID-19
• common cold
• dehydration

Sore throat, diarrhea, and nausea

Sore throat with diarrhea and nausea might be due to:

• flu
• adenoviruses
• COVID-19
• norovirus
• stomach flu
• gastritis

When to contact a doctor

Contact a healthcare provider if you experience:

• a sore throat or diarrhea that doesn’t improve after about a week
• blood in your stool
• signs of dehydration

Diagnosing the underlying cause

Often a clinician can identify the cause of a sore throat from symptoms alone. If strep throat is suspected, a throat swab is usually performed.

For persistent or severe diarrhea, doctors may request stool studies or a colonoscopy.

Sore throat and diarrhea treatment

Possible treatments for a sore throat and diarrhea include home measures and medical therapies.

Home remedies

Home treatments for sore throat include:

• honey
• gargling warm salt water
• chamomile tea
• peppermint oil sprays or peppermint tea

Learn more about home remedies for sore throat.

Home measures for diarrhea include:

• drinking plenty of fluids
• probiotics
• bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
• the BRAT diet, which includes: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast
• avoiding foods and drinks such as: alcohol, coffee, prunes, artificial sweeteners, beans

Learn more about home remedies for diarrhea.

Medical treatment

A physician may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial throat infections. Ongoing diarrhea may be treated with:

• antibiotics or antiparasitic agents
• intravenous fluids
• oral rehydration solutions

Frequently asked questions about having a sore throat and diarrhea together

Answers to common questions about these combined symptoms are below.

Can you have a sore throat with a stomach bug?

Stomach bugs don’t usually produce a sore throat, but repeated vomiting or acid reflux can inflame and make the throat sore.

What virus causes diarrhea and sore throat?

Various viruses can cause both diarrhea and sore throat, including:

• influenza viruses
• adenoviruses
• coronaviruses

Are diarrhea and sore throat symptoms of COVID-19?

Yes — diarrhea and sore throat can be symptoms of COVID-19. Other frequent features include cough, fever, and body aches.

Takeaway

Most viral infections in otherwise healthy people are mild. Seek immediate medical care if you develop worrying signs such as a very high fever or difficulty breathing.