Sore throat

Painful inflammation of the pharyngeal and faucial mucosa, often extending to the tonsils, causing odynophagia (painful swallowing) and throat discomfort.

Causes

• Viral infections

  • Common cold

  • Influenza

  • Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)

  • COVID-19

  • Measles

  • Chickenpox (varicella)

  • Croup

• Bacterial infections

  • Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcal pharyngitis)

  • Gonorrhea

  • Chlamydia

• Allergic causes

  • Pollen allergy

  • Mold allergy

  • Pet dander allergy

• Environmental irritants

  • Cigarette smoke

  • Air pollution

  • Dry air

• Other causes

  • Acid reflux (GERD)

  • Voice strain from screaming or singing