COVID-19 'Razor Blade Throat': Experts Explain the Intense Pain of Emerging Nimbus Variant Symptom

COVID-19 is back, and while the new Nimbus variant is generally mild, a concerning symptom is emerging: the "Razor Blade throat." This intense throat pain feels like swallowing shards of glass. But what causes this excruciating discomfort? Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding the "Razor Blade" Sore Throat

The term "Razor Blade" sore throat describes the severe pain associated with the Nimbus variant of COVID-19. Unlike previous strains that caused milder sore throats, this variant is characterized by sharp, stabbing pain, making swallowing a painful ordeal. First detected in China in May 2025, this symptom has since spread globally, now accounting for a significant portion of COVID-19 cases.

Decoding the Pain: Why Does It Hurt So Much?

COVID-19 is a respiratory infection that enters the body through the nose, mouth, and throat. During the early stages of infection, the virus replicates in the throat lining, triggering an immune response that leads to inflammation and swelling.

With the Nimbus variant, this immune response seems amplified in the throat area. Several factors might contribute to this:

• New variant: The Nimbus variant may be more adept at infecting throat cells, leading to increased damage and irritation.
• Immune system reaction: With widespread vaccination and prior infections, the immune system might react more vigorously to Nimbus. The throat's abundance of lymph nodes and immune cells can cause intense inflammation as a protective measure.
• Change in virus pattern: As the virus evolves, its symptom presentation can shift. Newer variants like Nimbus seem to cause more throat pain compared to earlier variants that primarily affected taste and smell.

Distinguishing "Razor Blade Throat" from Regular Sore Throats

Sore throats can arise from various causes, including the common cold, flu, allergies, acid reflux, or bacterial infections like strep throat. The "Razor Blade" sore throat associated with COVID-19 stands out due to its extreme sharpness and severity. However, extreme throat pain isn't exclusive to COVID-19.

Doctors caution that the overlap in symptoms makes it difficult to determine the cause of a sore throat without testing. If the pain is severe or persists for more than a few days, it's crucial to get tested for COVID-19. Regardless of the result, a doctor can determine if antibiotics are necessary to treat any underlying infection.

Additional Symptoms to Watch For

Besides the intense sore throat, the Nimbus variant causes symptoms similar to other COVID-19 strains, including:

• Fever (high or low grade)
• Whooping Cough
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Loss of taste or smell (less common)

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

Finding Relief: Managing "Razor Blade Throat" at Home

While the pain can be intense, you can alleviate discomfort at home through various methods:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids like water, warm tea, or broth to soothe the throat and prevent dryness. Avoid extremely hot beverages, opting for lukewarm temperatures.
• Use throat lozenges: These can provide temporary numbing and pain relief.
• Gargle with warm (not hot) salt water: This reduces inflammation and helps kill bacteria in the throat.
• Rest your voice: Avoid excessive talking to prevent further irritation.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Consult with a doctor before use.

If your sore throat worsens, persists for more than a week, or is accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek immediate medical attention.

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