Sore throat

A sore throat is pain, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat, which can make it uncomfortable to swallow or talk. It’s often a symptom of various conditions, such as:

• Cold or flu: Viral infections commonly cause sore throats.
• Strep throat: A bacterial infection that causes severe throat pain.
• Allergies: Irritants like pollen or dust can cause throat irritation.
• Dry air: Breathing dry air can dry out your throat and make it sore.

Common symptoms of a sore throat include:

• Pain or discomfort in the throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Redness or swelling in the throat
• Coughing

Most sore throats improve on their own within a few days. You can ease the pain by drinking warm liquids, gargling salt water, or using throat lozenges. If the sore throat is severe or lasts longer than a week, it’s a good idea to see a doctor.