Sore Throat
Pain, scratchiness, or irritation of the throat that often worsens when swallowing, commonly caused by viral or bacterial infection.
What is Sore Throat?
Sore Throat is a symptom that people may experience for many reasons. It can be related to infections, chronic conditions, injuries, medication effects, or other health changes. The presence of this symptom alone does not diagnose any condition.
If you have Sore Throat that is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other warning signs, contact a qualified healthcare provider.
Possible conditions associated with Sore Throat
The following conditions have been associated with Sore Throat. Only a health professional can determine the underlying cause.
Common Cold
A mild viral infection of the nose and throat causing runny nose, congestion, sneezing, and sore throat.
Epiglottitis
Inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis that can block the airway, a medical emergency.
Gonorrhea
A sexually transmitted bacterial infection that can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat, often causing discharge and...
HIV Infection
A viral infection that attacks the immune system. With treatment, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives.
Infectious Mononucleosis
A viral infection commonly caused by Epstein-Barr virus, characterized by fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph glands.
Influenza
A contagious respiratory viral infection causing fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, and fatigue.
Laryngitis
Inflammation of the voice box causing hoarseness and loss of voice, usually viral.
Streptococcal Pharyngitis
A bacterial throat infection caused by group A streptococcus, characterized by severe sore throat, fever, and swollen to...
Tonsillitis
Inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infection, causing sore throat, fever, and swollen tonsi...
Related symptoms
When to seek medical care
Seek urgent care if Sore Throat is severe, sudden, or occurs with chest pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, severe weakness, or other serious symptoms.