Sore throats make swallowing painful. The most common cause of sore throat is a viral infection. However, sometimes a sore throat results from a bacterial infection like strep throat. Bacterial infections require antibiotic treatment. Our healthcare providers will determine the cause of your sore throat and recommend the best treatment to resolve your symptoms.
Sore throats may come with other symptoms, including:
- Fever
- Swollen tonsils
- White patches or pus on the tonsils
- Hoarseness
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Body aches
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
Sore throats can also be caused by things other than viruses or bacteria. Some potential causes include:
- Allergies
- Dryness
- Air pollution or irritants
- Muscle strain from yelling or long periods of talking
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux
- HIV infection
- Tumors