Understanding Throat Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Throat infections refer to conditions in which the throat is inflamed or infected, often causing discomfort and difficulty swallowing.
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Inflammation | Medical Conditions | Infections | Throat Health | Sore Throat | Throat Pain
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Throat Infections 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.

Can a bacterial infection cause a sore throat?

On the other hand, a sore throat caused by a bacterial infection may require treatment with antibiotics to prevent complications. If you experience severe symptoms or if your sore throat lasts longer than one week, talk to a doctor to determine the cause and best course of treatment for you. Causes of sore throats range from infections to injuries.

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 throat infection?

Throat infections are caused by: Common Cold The common cold is a viral infection. It's one of the most common illnesses people get. Colds spread easily from person to person, especially within the first 2 days of symptoms Symptoms include... read more Streptococcal Infections What are streptococcal infections?

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.

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

Throat Infections References

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