When you have a sore throat, this can affect speaking, swallowing, or breathing. Infections from viruses or bacteria are the main cause of sore throats, but allergies and sinus infections can also contribute. Some sore throats are worse than others. If you have a sore throat that lasts for more than five to ten days, you should see your doctor.

A sore throat, also called a throat infection or pharyngitis, is a painful inflammation of the back part of the throat (pharynx). Pharyngitis can involve some or all of these parts of the throat: the tonsils (fleshy tissue that are part of the throat’s immune defenses). The most common cause of sore throat is infection with bacteria or a virus.

Sore Throat in Adults. March 29, 2022. Sore throats are very common and usually resolve without specific treatment. Of the infections that cause sore throat, viral infections are most common. Less often, you may have a bacterial infection called strep throat. Infections are not the only cause of sore throats. Allergies causing nasal congestion…

Pharyngitis and tonsillitis are throat infections that cause inflammation. Pharyngitis and tonsillitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, and cigarette smoking. Most infections are caused by viruses. Antibiotics don’t cure a viral infection, and should not be used. If a bacterial infection is diagnosed, it will be treated…

Common causes of chronic sinusitis include nasal polyps, deviated nasal septum, repeated respiratory infections, allergies, or complications of other conditions. An ENT provider can help determine the best treatment option to help ease your symptoms, including medications, antibiotics, or surgery. 6. Chronic sore throat or tonsillitis.

A sore throat is often one of the symptoms of a cold or the flu and is also an indicator of a much more serious infection like strep throat or mononucleosis. A sore throat can also be related to other problems, such as allergies or even reflux when stomach acids are regurgitated into the back of the throat. Causes of Sore Throats. Doctor…

Others produce byproducts that can cause a sore throat and sometimes lead to tonsillitis, an infection of the tonsils, or cause ear or sinus infections. Still other strep strains produce a toxin that can cause a characteristic skin rash or lead to effects on the heart, kidneys, or even the brain.

Luckily, such emergencies are rare. Sore throats can be caused by many things, including: Viral infections. It’s most likely a virus if along with the sore throat, your child has a runny nose and cough, perhaps with body aches, fever, an upset stomach, or diarrhea. Many different viruses can cause these symptoms, including the one that causes…

For more detailed information, visit McGovern Medical School, Harvard Health, Harvard Health, University of Rochester Medical Center, Mayo Clinic Health System, UR Medicine Otolaryngology, Tufts Now, and Harvard Health Blog.