HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is most commonly known for causing genital warts and cervical cancer.

But what many people don’t realize is that HPV can also infect the throat—specifically, a region known as the oropharynx, which includes the back of the throat, the tonsils, and the base of the tongue.

This type of infection is called oropharyngeal HPV, and science has shown that, if left undetected, it can lead to serious health problems.

Main Symptoms of HPV in the Throat

Many people with HPV in the throat don’t show symptoms right away. However, when symptoms do appear, they often include:

• Persistent sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Changes in voice or hoarseness
• Feeling like something is stuck in the throat
• Ear pain without an obvious infection
• Swelling in the neck (which may indicate swollen lymph nodes)
• Unexplained weight loss

Studies, including those published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, have confirmed that certain strains of HPV—especially type 16—are strongly linked to oropharyngeal cancer.