Understanding Sore Throats: Symptoms, Causes, and Remedies

Sore throats are characterized by pain, scratchiness, or irritation of the throat, often caused by viral or bacterial infections.
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Inflammation | Medical Conditions | Infections | Throat Health | Throat Pain | Strep Throat
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Sore Throats FAQ


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What is a sore throat?

A sore throat is a painful, dry, or scratchy feeling in the throat. Pain in the throat is one of the most common symptoms, which accounts for more than 2% of all adult primary care visits each year. Most sore throats are caused by infections, or by environmental factors like dry air.

Is a sore throat a symptom of a serious condition?

This is because your sore throat may be a symptom of a more serious condition. The cause of a sore throat isn’t always obvious. But in most cases it’s a symptom of a viral or bacterial infection. colds or flu – you may also have a blocked or runny nose, a cough, a high temperature (fever), a headache and general aches

Can a virus cause a sore throat?

A sore throat caused by a virus resolves on its own. Strep throat (streptococcal infection), a less common type of sore throat caused by bacteria, requires treatment with antibiotics to prevent complications. Other less common causes of sore throat might require more complex treatment.

What causes a sore throat (pharyngitis)?

The most common cause of a sore throat (pharyngitis) is a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu. A sore throat caused by a virus resolves on its own. Strep throat (streptococcal infection), a less common type of sore throat caused by bacteria, requires treatment with antibiotics to prevent complications.

Are sore throats the definitive pain in the neck?

Whether it's a sharp sting in the back of the throat when swallowing, or a constant ache that nothing seems to shift, one thing is certain: sore throats are the definitive pain in the neck. We look at the symptoms and causes of sore throats and when to worry.

What does a sore throat feel like?

Laryngitis is swelling and redness of the voice box, or larynx. The symptoms of a sore throat can vary depending on what caused it. A sore throat can feel: It may hurt more when you swallow or talk. Your throat or tonsils might also look red. Sometimes, white patches or areas of pus will form on the tonsils.

Sore Throats References

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