Sore Throat: A Complete Guide About Causes and Treatments

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Sore throats are common. But what are the different types of sore throats and when should you see a doctor? Learn about sore throat causes from bacterial to acid reflux and how to treat it.
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.
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