What are the Most Common Causes of Sore Throat?

The scratchiness, dryness, swelling and pain that indicates a sore throat can be caused by a variety of different illnesses, such as cancer, nerve damage, alcohol and even excess stress. The most likely culprit for a sore throat, however, is an infection. These infections can be caused by viruses or bacteria and can typically be identified by the type of symptoms that accompany the sore throat. Other regular causes of sore throat include environmental irritants and muscle strains.

Although there are thousands of viruses that can potentially cause sore throat symptoms, the most common causes of sore throat are the common cold and the flu. These upper respiratory infections generally present with a dry cough, sneezing and a runny nose. Common childhood illnesses can also lead to a sore throat and may be identifiable by specific indicators. For example, a sore throat and rash are often present with the chickenpox virus.

Unlike viral infections, sore throats caused by bacterial infections tend to be more painful and cause more noticeable symptoms. If a bacterial infection is occurring, strep throat is one of the most likely causes. Strep throat routinely infects young children and teenagers and is caused by the Streptococcus bacteria; these contagious bacteria are spread by direct contact with an infected person. A sudden fever, swollen glands or visible white patches and redness at the back of the throat are often observed with this bacterial infection. The sore throat also tends to be more persistent and can linger for days.

Another of the frequent causes of sore throat is environmental irritants. For those with allergies, pollen, dust, mold, ragweed and pet dander can trigger a sore throat. Tobacco smoke and pollution also contain toxic chemicals that could potentially inflame the lining of the throat when inhaled.

Excess usage of the throat muscles is another widespread contributor to sore throats. Just like other muscles in the body, throat muscles can become sore and strained when overworked. Symptoms that may crop up with vocal cord strain include hoarseness and voice fatigue. Professional speakers, singers, cheerleaders, teachers and others who use their vocal cords extensively may be somewhat more likely to suffer from this type of sore throat than others.

The appropriate treatment for throat pain will depend on correctly identifying the underlying causes of sore throat. After a physical examination of the throat and a discussion of the patient’s symptoms, a medical professional may take a culture of the throat to test for a bacterial infection. If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics will typically be prescribed.

Sore throats caused by viral infections will not respond to antibiotics, however. Instead, these infections will usually clear up on their own once the body rids itself of the virus. While the infection persists, over-the-counter medications including sore throat lozenges, numbing throat sprays and pain relievers can be used. Decongestants and antihistamines may also be used to help clear up a runny nose, nasal congestion or post-nasal drip associated with sore throats connected to viral infections.

As sore throats are very common and affect most individuals at some point in their lives, it may seem that sore throats are just a minor health issue. There are instances, however, when medical attention is required. A sore throat that persists for longer than a week or frequently reoccurs may indicate a more serious health condition. Prompt medical attention might be in order if a sore throat occurs along with difficulty breathing, trouble swallowing liquids or bloody saliva.