Soothing Sore Throats

A sore throat is a common condition characterized by pain, irritation, or scratchiness in the throat. It may be due to viral infections, allergies, or strep bacteria.
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Strep Throat Test | Tonsillitis Treatment | Chronic Pharyngitis | Throat Pain | Pharyngitis
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Sore Throat 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.

What are the different types of sore throats?

Sore throats are divided into types, based on the part of the throat they affect: Pharyngitis causes swelling and soreness in the throat. Tonsillitis is swelling and redness of the tonsils, the soft tissue in the back of the mouth. Laryngitis is swelling and redness of the voice box, or larynx.

What does a sore throat feel like?

A sore throat is pain or a scratchy sensation in the throat which may worsen with swallowing or talking. It may be difficult to swallow. The throat might also be red, with white patches or streaks of pus. If your sore throat is caused by a cold virus, you may also have a runny nose, cough, possibly fever and feel very tired.

What are the symptoms of a sore throat?

Symptoms of a sore throat can vary depending on the cause. Signs and symptoms might include: The throat includes the esophagus; windpipe, also known as the trachea; voice box, also known as the larynx; tonsils; and epiglottis. Infections causing a sore throat might result in other signs and symptoms, including:

Can a virus cause a sore throat?

There is no way to cure a sore throat that is caused by a virus. If the sore throat is caused by bacteria, you may benefit from antibiotics. Sometimes, when the sore throat is caused by strep A, complications can occur, including an abscess at the back of your throat, rheumatic fever and problems with your kidneys. What is a sore throat?

Sore Throat References

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