"Razor Blade Throat": Experts Explain the Intense Pain of New COVID-19 Symptom

After a period of relative dormancy, COVID-19 is resurging globally, with new cases emerging across the world. The recently identified variant, tentatively named Nimbus, is currently under close observation. Medical professionals indicate that this variant typically does not lead to severe illness, with most individuals recovering at home through rest and hydration. However, a notable symptom increasingly associated with this variant is intense throat pain, often referred to as "Razor Blade throat." This pain is described as so acute that it feels akin to swallowing razor blades. Let's delve into this emerging symptom and explore the reasons behind its intensity.

What is "Razor Blade" Sore Throat?

The term "razor blade" sore throat aptly describes the excruciating throat pain induced by the Nimbus variant of COVID-19. Unlike the milder sore throats associated with earlier strains, this symptom presents as exceptionally sharp and painful. Many sufferers report that even the act of swallowing food or water becomes a daunting task. This symptom was initially observed in China following the variant's emergence in May 2025 and has since spread to the U.S. and other nations. Nimbus now accounts for approximately one-third of COVID-19 cases in the U.S.

Unpacking the Pain: Why is it So Severe?

COVID-19, in its essence, is a respiratory infection that gains entry into the body via the nose, mouth, and throat—components of the upper respiratory tract. In the initial stages of infection, the virus proliferates within the lining of the throat, triggering the body's immune system to mount a defense. This immune response leads to inflammation and swelling in the throat tissues.

With the Nimbus variant, this immune response appears to be particularly robust or concentrated in the throat region. Doctors suggest several possible explanations:

• New Variant: Nimbus might possess a heightened capacity for infecting throat cells compared to previous variants, resulting in increased damage and irritation.

• Immune System Reaction: Given that a significant portion of the population is vaccinated or has previously contracted COVID-19, their immune systems might react more aggressively to Nimbus. The throat is rich in lymph nodes and immune cells, which can trigger intense inflammation upon activation as a protective mechanism.

• Change in Virus Pattern: As the virus evolves, its patterns also change. Earlier variants were often associated with loss of taste and smell, whereas newer variants such as Nimbus tend to cause more pronounced throat pain.

Differentiating "Razor Blade" Throat from Regular Sore Throats

Sore throats can stem from a variety of causes, including the common cold, influenza, allergies, acid reflux, or bacterial infections like strep throat. The distinguishing characteristic of the COVID-19 "razor blade" sore throat is the extreme sharpness and intensity of the pain, though extreme throat pain is not exclusive to COVID-19.

Medical professionals caution that, given the symptom overlap with other illnesses, it can be challenging to discern whether a sore throat is attributable to COVID-19 or another underlying condition. If the pain is severe or persists for more than a few days, undergoing COVID-19 testing is crucial. Even in the absence of COVID-19, a doctor can determine whether antibiotics are necessary to manage the infection.

Accompanying Symptoms

Beyond the severe sore throat, Nimbus elicits symptoms akin to those associated with other COVID-19 variants, including:

• Fever (ranging from high to low grade)
• Whooping Cough
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Loss of taste or smell (less prevalent currently)

Some individuals might also experience swollen lymph nodes or difficulty swallowing due to throat inflammation.

Seeking Relief: Managing the Pain

While the pain can be considerable, several strategies can alleviate discomfort at home:

• Stay Hydrated: Consume ample fluids such as water, warm tea, or broth to soothe the throat and prevent dryness. However, avoid excessively hot beverages, as they can further irritate the throat. Lukewarm liquids are preferable.
• Use Throat Lozenges: These can provide temporary numbness and pain relief.
• Gargle with Warm (Not Hot) Salt Water: This aids in reducing inflammation and eliminating some bacteria in the throat.
• Rest Your Voice: Refrain from excessive talking to prevent further irritation.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation, but consult a doctor first.

Should your sore throat worsen, persist for more than a week, or be accompanied by breathing or swallowing difficulties, seek medical attention promptly.

Sources:

WebMD, “Why COVID 'Razor Blade' Sore Throat Hurts So Bad,” June 26, 2025 Everyday Health, “How to Cope With a COVID-19 Sore Throat,” June 23, 2025 Healthline, “New COVID Variant Nimbus May Cause Painful ‘Razor Blade Throat’ Symptom,” June 19, 2025