What is a Sore Throat?

A sore throat refers to pain, itchiness, or irritation of the throat. You may have difficulty swallowing food and liquids, and the pain may get worse when you try to swallow. Throat pain is the primary symptom of a sore throat. However, other symptoms may include a dry throat, swollen glands in the neck, white patches on the tonsils, and hoarseness.

Causes of a Sore Throat

The majority of sore throats are triggered by a viral infection. These are infections caused by a virus, such as the cold and flu.  Other types of viral infections include:

- Mononucleosis: infectious disease typically transmitted through saliva
- Measles: contagious illnesses characterized by a distinct rash and fever
- Chickenpox: infection that causes skin sores
- Croup: infection of the larynx

How to Treat a Sore Throat
- Gargling with warm salt water
- Drinking plenty of warm fluids, such as teas, soup, and water
- Avoiding allergens and irritants, such as smoke and chemicals
- Taking throat lozenges
- Reducing inflammation with ibuprofen or acetaminophen

How to Prevent a Sore Throat

Steps that you can take to prevent a sore throat include:

- Do not share drinking glasses or utensils with others.
- Use hand sanitizers whenever soap and water are not available.
- Limit contact with commonly touched surfaces.
- Reduce exposure to allergens, such as pollen, dust, and mold.
- Avoid cigarette smoke.
- Keep a humidifier in your house to eliminate dryness.