Sore throat

A sore throat, medically referred to as pharyngitis, is a common symptom that involves discomfort, pain, or irritation in the throat. It is typically caused by inflammation due to various conditions like viral or bacterial infections, environmental factors, or certain medical treatments.

US Navy 040113-N-4614W-005 Capt. Wan Mun Chin examines a patient suffering from a sore throat and high fever

Causes of Sore Throat

Sore throats can result from several causes:

Strep throat with white strawberry tongue

Infections

The majority of sore throats are triggered by viral infections such as the common cold or influenza. Bacterial infections, particularly Streptococcus pyogenes (the cause of strep throat), can also lead to a sore throat.

Sore throat and ulcerated right tonsil in a 47-year old woma Wellcome V0036368ET

Allergies

Allergic reactions to pollen, dust mites, or pet dander can cause a sore throat. The allergic reaction leads to the release of histamines, resulting in symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and a sore throat.

Environmental Factors

Dry indoor air, particularly during the winter months, can make the throat feel scratchy and sore. Breathing through the mouth — often due to chronic nasal congestion — can also lead to a dry, sore throat.

Medical Treatments

Some medical treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation to the neck and chest, can cause a sore throat.

Symptoms

In addition to throat pain, other symptoms may occur, such as difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, redness of the throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, and fever.

Diagnosis

Healthcare providers typically diagnose a sore throat based on the physical examination and the patient's symptoms. In some cases, a throat swab may be taken to test for the presence of bacteria or viruses.

Treatment

Treatment for a sore throat depends on the cause. If a bacterial infection is responsible, antibiotics may be prescribed. For viral infections, symptomatic relief can be provided with over-the-counter medications, throat lozenges, and home remedies like warm saltwater gargles.

Prevention

Hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with people who have a throat infection can help prevent the spread of infectious causes of sore throats. For individuals prone to allergic reactions, managing allergens in their environment can help prevent sore throats.

See Also

• Common Cold
• Influenza
• Strep Throat
• Allergies

References

Sore throat Resources
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