Sore throat
Sore throat is an unpleasant sensation in the throat that can be caused by inflammation, irritation, or infection.
Possible causes
- Viral infections: the most common cause of acute sore throat, such as a cold or flu. These can also cause tonsillitis, which is accompanied by red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white spots or pus plugs.
- Bacterial infections: for example, strep throat, which is often associated with tonsillitis and requires antibiotic treatment. Symptoms include severe sore throat, high fever, difficulty swallowing, and often white spots or pus plugs on the tonsils.
- Allergies: pollen, dust mites, or pet dander can cause throat irritation and chronic sore throat.
- Vocal cord overuse: constant shouting, singing, or speaking loudly can cause throat irritation.
- Smoking and alcohol consumption: these irritate the throat and can cause chronic pain and tonsil irritation.
Should I see a doctor?
Most acute sore throats are caused by viruses and resolve with home treatment within a few days. If the sore throat is very severe, lasts more than 3-5 days, is accompanied by a high fever (over 38.5 °C), difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, neck stiffness, rash, or if there are white spots in the throat, you should definitely consult a doctor. In the case of chronic sore throat that lasts more than two weeks, it is always advisable to consult a doctor to find out the cause and rule out more serious diseases. In children, especially if they are very young or have difficulty breathing, medical attention should be sought more quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are home remedies for sore throat?
Warm tea with honey, gargling with salt water, throat lozenges, pain relievers (e.g., paracetamol, ibuprofen), adequate fluid intake, and rest help relieve sore throat.
How to distinguish between viral and bacterial sore throat?
Viral sore throat is often accompanied by a runny nose, cough, and general malaise. In bacterial sore throat (e.g., strep throat), the pain is usually more severe, accompanied by a high fever, difficulty swallowing, and white spots on the tonsils. A doctor can make a definitive diagnosis with a throat swab.
Is sore throat contagious?
Yes, most viruses and bacteria that cause sore throat are spread through airborne droplets. It is important to practice good hand hygiene, avoid touching your face, and keep a distance from sick people.
When are antibiotics needed for sore throat?
Antibiotics are only needed to treat bacterial infections (e.g., streptococcal pharyngitis or bacterial tonsillitis). Antibiotics do not help with viral sore throat, and their unnecessary use promotes antibiotic resistance.
What are tonsils and when do they cause problems?
Tonsils are collections of lymphoid tissue at the back of the throat that are part of the immune system and help protect the body from infections. They cause problems when they become inflamed (tonsillitis), which can be acute or chronic. Recurrent acute tonsillitis (e.g., 3-4 times a year), chronic tonsillitis causing persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, bad breath, enlarged tonsils, or other complications (e.g., sleep apnea) may lead to the need for tonsil removal (tonsillectomy).
