A sore throat can be caused by numerous illnesses or ailments, and can even refer to several different forms of throat discomfort. People will often state they have a “sore throat” when their throat feels swollen, scratchy, dry, or when there is pain and discomfort while swallowing.
Causes
A sore throat may be caused by an infection, virus, or non-illness-related events. Causes not attributed to an illness or disease may include yelling or singing loudly and smoke inhalation, dryness, or other irritations. Occasionally a strained muscle in the throat region can also be to blame.
Common illnesses that cause a sore throat include:
- Common cold
- Allergies to food, pollen, dust, dander, etc.
- Influenza (“Flu”)
- Upper Respiratory Infection
- Ear Infection
- Acid Reflux (GERD)
- Tonsillitis
- Mononucleosis (also known as the Epstein-Barr Virus)
- Croup
Less common causes include:
- Chickenpox
- HIV
- Measles
- Tumors
- Abscesses
The cause of a sore throat is often diagnosed along with other presenting symptoms. These may include coughing, sneezing, fever, running or stuffy nose, ear pain, rash, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, hoarseness, headache, watery eyes, etc.
Home Remedies
Most sore throats respond well to home treatment, and there are many different remedies you can try to alleviate discomfort. You may wish to try the following:
- Gargling with saltwater
- Warm tea with honey and lemon
- Sucking ice cubes or eating popsicles
- Anti-inflammatory medications (Ibuprofen)
- Rest as often as possible
- Use a cool-mist or warm vapor humidifier
- Drink plenty of clear fluids to stay hydrated
- Avoid irritants like smoking, campfires, or chemicals
- Suck on hard candy or use throat lozenges
When to See A Doctor
Although most cases of a sore throat can be treated effectively at home, there are times when it is necessary to seek medical assistance. A doctor will direct your care and prescribe the best course of action, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
If you or your child experience any of the following, it is highly suggested you seek medical attention:
- a fever over 104 in anyone over age six
- a fever over 103 in anyone aged six months to six years
- any fever in a child under six months
- difficulty breathing
- fever which does not react to treatment
- a sore throat lasting two or more days
- a sore throat which gets worse instead of better
Our team at MD Express Urgent Care can test for things like strep throat, the flu, mono and other potential causes of your sore throat. Visit any one of our five convenient locations.
