SORE THROAT

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

Symptom Definition

Pain, discomfort or raw feeling of the throat, especially when swallowing.

General Information

Sore throat is one of the most common reasons patients go to the doctor's office.
The medical term for a throat infection is pharyngitis or tonsillo-pharyngitis.

Causes of Sore Throat

Colds: Most sore throats are from a cold or other viral infection. The presence of a cough, hoarseness or nasal symptoms points to a cold or viral infection as the cause of the sore throat
Strep Throat: In adults, approximately 10-20% of sore throats are caused by the streptococcus (strep) bacteria. Streptococcal pharyngitis is the only commonly occurring bacteria for which antibiotic therapy is definitely indicated.
Mono: Infectious mononucleosis is primarily seen in young adults, causing 5-10% of the sore throats in that population. It should be suspected in young adults with fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and a negative strep throat culture. A blood test called a "monospot" can help make the diagnosis. There is no antibiotic treatment.
Other common causes include dry air, smoking, post-nasal drip and yelling. Sexually transmitted diseases (e.g. gonorrhea) can also cause pharyngitis.

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

Sore throat occurs with a COLD
Sore throat is mild and COUGH is the main symptom

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

See Other Topics:

Colds
Cough

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