A sore throat (pharyngitis) is a common condition that causes pain, scratchiness, and irritation in the throat that often worsens when swallowing. Common causes include:
- Viral infections (like the common cold or flu)
- Bacterial infections (most notably strep throat)
- Allergies
- Dry air or environmental irritants
- Overuse of the voice
Common symptoms include:
- Pain or scratchy sensation when swallowing
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Red, inflamed tonsils
- Hoarse or muffled voice
- White patches on the tonsils (in some cases)
Most sore throats will improve on their own within a week. However, you should seek medical attention if you experience:
- Severe difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Unusual drooling (suggesting you can’t swallow)
- A fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
- Blood in saliva or phlegm
- A lump in your neck
- Hoarseness lasting more than 2 weeks