Sore throat: infection, irritation, and warning signs
A sore throat is often viral, sometimes bacterial, or caused by irritation. Breathing and the ability to swallow are key.
Common possible causes
- Viral infection
- Strep throat
- Allergy, dry air, or smoke
- Reflux or voice strain
What you can do now
- Drink fluids and humidify the air
- Gargle salt water when safe
- Avoid smoking and rest the voice
- Use antibiotics only after assessment
When not to wait
- Breathing difficulty or noisy breathing
- Unable to swallow saliva or drooling
- Rapidly increasing neck swelling
- Severe one-sided pain with difficulty opening the mouth
When to contact a clinician
Contact a clinician if symptoms worsen, last longer than expected, or you have a high-risk condition or uncertainty. Seek immediate help for warning signs.
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