Experiencing diarrhea and a sore throat at the same time is often a sign of a viral infection. The flu, the common cold, and COVID-19 are among the potential causes.
Individually, a sore throat and diarrhea have hundreds of potential causes. The two symptoms together are often a sign of an infection.
Although less likely, having diarrhea and a sore throat together can also have a noninfectious cause.
Read on to learn more about why you may have these two symptoms.
Here are some reasons you may have a sore throat and diarrhea.
Flu
The flu is caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms can include:
- fever
- cough
- headache
- body aches
- sore throat
- runny nose
- general unwellness (malaise)
- fatigue
The flu
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
Adenovirus infection
Adenoviruses are a common cause of respiratory illness. They generally cause flu-like symptoms that start
COVID-19
COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2, a type of coronavirus. COVID-19 has been associated with many symptoms, including sore throat and diarrhea. Other common symptoms include:
- fever and chills
- cough
- shortness of breath
- fatigue
- body aches
- nausea and vomiting
- stuffy nose
- runny nose
- loss of taste or loss of smell
- headache
Common cold
The common cold is most often caused by a rhinovirus. A sore throat is often the initial symptom.
Diarrhea isn’t a typical symptom of a cold, but it
Other viruses that cause colds include:
Norovirus
Noroviruses can cause illness often referred to as stomach flu or stomach bug. Symptoms commonly develop
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- nausea
- abdominal pain
Noroviruses may indirectly cause a sore throat by inducing dehydration and vomiting.
Stomach flu
Noroviruses are a common cause of stomach flu. Other causes include:
- rotaviruses
- adenoviruses
- astroviruses
Strep throat
The most common symptom of strep throat is a sore throat. Diarrhea isn’t a symptom, but it can be a side effect of antibiotics used to treat the infection.
Food allergy
Food allergies can cause symptoms like:
- tingling or itching in your mouth
- hives
- swelling of your throat, lips, or face, which may contribute to a sore throat
- wheezing
- nasal congestion
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
- nausea and vomiting
- dizziness
Food poisoning
Food poisoning commonly causes diarrhea and vomiting. Vomiting may indirectly lead to a sore throat.
Acute gastritis
Acute gastritis is inflammation of your stomach lining, often due to an infection. Diarrhea is often one of the early symptoms. Vomiting might lead to throat irritation.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Diarrhea is a common IBS symptom.
Dehydration
Diarrhea can cause your body to become dehydrated, and dehydration can lead to a dry throat. A dry throat can make it more prone to injury.
Mixed causes
It’s possible that your diarrhea and sore throat have separate causes such as multiple infections.
Here are some potential causes of a sore throat and diarrhea combined with other symptoms.
Sore throat, diarrhea, and fever or fatigue
- flu
- adenoviruses
- COVID-19
- common cold
- norovirus
- stomach flu
Stomach cramps, diarrhea, sore throat, and headache
Stomach cramps, diarrhea, sore throat, and headache might be caused by:
- flu
- adenoviruses
- COVID-19
- common cold
- dehydration
Sore throat, diarrhea, and nausea
Sore throat, diarrhea, and nausea might be caused by:
- flu
- adenoviruses
- COVID-19
- norovirus
- stomach flu
- gastritis
It’s recommended to contact a doctor if you have:
- a sore throat or diarrhea that does not improve after about a week
- you have blood in your stool
- you have signs of dehydration
A doctor can often diagnose a sore throat based on your symptoms alone. If they suspect strep throat, they typically order a throat swab.
If your diarrhea is persistent or severe, the doctor may order stool tests or a colonoscopy.
Here are some potential treatment options for a sore throat and diarrhea:
Home remedies
Home remedies for a sore throat include:
- honey
- gargling warm salt water
- chamomile tea
- peppermint oil sprays or peppermint tea
Home remedies for diarrhea include:
- drinking plenty of fluids
- probiotics
- bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
- the BRAT diet, which includes:
- bananas
- rice
- applesauce
- toast
- avoiding foods like:
- alcohol
- coffee
- prunes
- artificial sweeteners
- beans
Medical treatment
A doctor may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial throat infections. Persistent diarrhea may be treated with:
- antibiotics or antiparasitic medications
- intravenous fluids
- oral rehydration solutions
Here are some frequently asked questions people have about sore throats and diarrhea.
Can you have a sore throat with a stomach bug?
A stomach flu usually doesn’t cause a sore throat, but your throat may become inflamed and sore if you vomit or have acid reflux.
What virus causes diarrhea and sore throat?
Many different viruses can cause diarrhea and a sore throat. These include:
- influenza viruses
- adenoviruses
- coronaviruses
Are diarrhea and sore throat symptoms of COVID-19?
Diarrhea and a sore throat are common symptoms of COVID-19. Other common symptoms include a cough, fever, or body aches.
Most viral infections in people with proper immune function are mild. It’s important to get medical attention immediately if you have concerning symptoms such as a high fever or trouble breathing.