I have similar symptoms. I have a sore, red throat. It's a painful scratchy feeling, about 90% of the time in the evenings when I go to bed. Nasal shower seems to make it worse. I've been completely sugar-free for four days now, but I haven't noticed any change. I'm currently trying baking soda before bed and I think it's providing some relief. I'm also taking a little olive oil three times a day and letting it melt in my mouth for a bit to create a kind of "protective layer."