Causes of sore throat

A sore throat is pain, scratchiness or irritation of the throat that often worsens when swallowing. Most cases are caused by infections and clear within a week.

Viral infections (most common)

• Common cold and flu viruses
• COVID-19
• Mono (glandular fever), measles, chickenpox and croup in children

Bacterial infections

• Strep throat, caused by group A Streptococcus, is the most important bacterial cause, especially in children aged 5 to 15.
• Less often, other bacteria, including those causing sinus infections that drip mucus down the throat.

Non-infectious causes

• Allergies to dust, pollen or pets, which cause a postnasal drip
• Dry air, especially in winter or air-conditioned rooms
• Smoke, pollution and irritants, including tobacco
• Acid reflux (GERD), which burns the throat, often worse at night or in the morning
• Shouting, singing or overuse of the voice
• Mouth breathing, often from a blocked nose
• Rarely, tumors of the throat or a throat abscess

Risk factors Young age, close contact in schools and homes, smoking, weak immunity, and seasonal allergies.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Ayurveda links sore throat with aggravated Kapha and Pitta affecting the throat (Kantha). This is a traditional framework and does not identify the germ involved.

When to see a doctor See a doctor for a sore throat that is severe, lasts more than a week, comes with high fever, rash, difficulty swallowing or breathing, drooling (in a child), ear pain or a lump in the neck. Call 112 for breathing difficulty or inability to swallow saliva.

Remember Most sore throats are viral and settle on their own. Severe or lasting symptoms need a check.