Sore Throat

A sore throat, or pharyngitis, is a painful, dry, or scratchy feeling in the throat caused by inflammation of the pharynx, the area behind the mouth that extends to the esophagus and larynx. This common condition can result from viral infections, such as the common cold or influenza, bacterial infections like streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat), or environmental factors like dry air, smoking, or pollution. Allergic reactions and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also contribute to sore throat symptoms.

From a medical standpoint, a sore throat is typically assessed through a combination of patient history and physical examination, where health providers look for signs of inflammation, redness, and white patches on the tonsils, sometimes accompanied by swollen lymph nodes and fever. The diagnosis might be confirmed with rapid antigen detection tests or throat cultures, particularly to identify streptococcal infections, which require antibiotic treatment. Most sore throats caused by viruses resolve without specific treatment, but symptomatic relief can be provided by analgesics, throat lozenges, hydrating fluids, and rest. Chronic or recurrent cases may warrant further investigation to determine underlying causes such as allergies, autoimmune conditions, or other chronic infections.