You do not need to avoid fried foods completely, but you should limit them. A sore throat involves inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa, causing pain and discomfort when swallowing. This condition is common during weather changes or in low temperatures. A cough, a common symptom of a sore throat, can worsen at night or when exposed to irritants.

Fried foods, which are often oily, have a crispy, hard, and sometimes sharp texture (like french fries, fried chicken, or fried rice crackers). Swallowing these can irritate the inflamed throat lining, increasing pain and triggering a more severe cough reflex. This also promotes excessive mucus production, leading to a feeling of obstruction, discomfort, and prolonged coughing.

Oily foods also digest slowly. When food remains in the stomach longer, it can lead to acid reflux into the throat and larynx, further irritating the cough.

Foods high in saturated and trans fats can promote systemic inflammation, which is detrimental to someone who is unwell. If you are experiencing a sore throat, cough, or any inflammation, consuming these fats can overburden your immune system and inflammatory response, potentially prolonging your symptoms.

Doctor Thuc Nhu is consulting a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

During periods of significant coughing, prioritize soft and warm dishes such as porridge, soup, broth, steamed, or boiled foods. Keep your neck, chest, and feet warm, and drink warm water to keep your throat moist, which helps thin phlegm and reduce coughing. In the bedroom, maintain moderate humidity and avoid direct airflow from air conditioners. Gargle daily with physiological saline solution and avoid tobacco smoke, dust, and chemical odors.

If your cough persists for more than two to three weeks, causes sleeplessness, is accompanied by a high fever, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, or blood in your cough, or if your sore throat recurs multiple times a year, seek an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform an endoscopy for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Master of Science, Doctor, Level I Specialist Nguyen Thi Thuc Nhu

Ear, Nose, and Throat Center

Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City