Sore Throat: A Complete Guide About Causes and Treatments

Overview

A sore throat is a very common symptom experienced by people of all ages. While most cases are mild and self-limiting, some can signal more serious underlying conditions. This guide explores the typical symptoms, common and serious causes, treatments, and when it’s time to seek medical attention.

What Does a Sore Throat Feel Like?

A dry, scratchy, or painful throat, especially noticeable when swallowing, is often one of the first signs of an upper respiratory tract infection. It commonly occurs alongside:

• Fever, chills, or alternating hot and cold spells

• Sneezing or a runny, blocked, or stuffy nose

• Cough

• Body aches and general discomfort

• Headache

• Fatigue or low energy

• Hoarseness or voice changes

• Swollen glands (lymph nodes) in the neck

• Difficulty swallowing or reduced appetite

Which Part of the Throat is Affected?

The symptoms vary depending on which part of the throat is involved:

• Pharyngitis – Inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx); often linked to viral infections

• Tonsillitis – Swelling, redness, and pain in the tonsils (back of the mouth)

• Laryngitis – Inflammation of the voice box (larynx), typically leading to hoarseness or voice loss

Why It Matters

Most sore throats are due to viral infections such as the common cold or flu and resolve on their own. However, some may be caused by bacterial infections or other medical conditions that require treatment. Knowing when a sore throat is just a nuisance — and when it could be something more — is key to staying healthy.

Understanding Sore Throats: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help

A sore throat, most commonly presenting as pharyngitis, is a frequent health complaint. While often mild and self-limiting, it can occasionally indicate a more serious underlying issue. Understanding the causes can help guide appropriate treatment and recovery.

Common Causes of Sore Throat

Viral Infections (Most Common Cause)

Most sore throats are caused by viruses. These are usually accompanied by symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, or hoarseness. Common viral causes include:

• Common cold viruses (e.g., rhinovirus)

• Influenza (flu)

• Croup

• Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) – Glandular fever

• Varicella zoster – Chickenpox

• Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

• Herpes simplex virus

• HIV

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial sore throats tend to develop rapidly with fever and throat pain, often without a cough. Common bacterial causes include:

• Group A Streptococcus (strep throat)

• Haemophilus influenzae

• Chronic sinusitis with post-nasal drip

If left untreated, bacterial infections can cause complications such as:

• Acute epiglottitis

• Peritonsillar abscess (quinsy)

• Pharyngeal abscess

• Heart or kidney infections (e.g., rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis)

🔹 Other Causes

• Fungal infections (e.g., Candida or oral thrush)

• Acid reflux irritating the throat

• Environmental irritants such as cigarette smoke or pollutants

Less Common but Serious Causes

• Cancer of the throat or upper airway

• Referred pain from cardiac conditions

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as:

  • Gonorrhoea

  • Syphilis

  • Herpes simplex

• HIV-related infections

Sore Throat Treatment

For most viral sore throats, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms while the body recovers:

✅ Symptom Relief

• Paracetamol every 4–6 hours for pain, fever, and aches

• Salt water gargles – 1 teaspoon of salt in warm water

• Hydration – Sip fluids or oral rehydration solutions (e.g., Hydralyte)

✅ Over-the-Counter Remedies

• Betadine Sore Throat Gargle

• Strepsils or Difflam lozenges

• Lemsip Max Cold & Flu drinks

📌 Always read the label and use products as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Overuse of lozenges can sometimes worsen throat irritation.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice if:

• Your symptoms persist longer than a few days

• You have high fever, difficulty swallowing, or breathing issues

• You notice pus on the tonsils or swollen lymph nodes

• You have a weakened immune system

A telehealth consultation is a convenient way to speak with a doctor early in your illness. If a bacterial infection is suspected, a doctor may recommend antibiotics or further testing.