Sore Throats

What causes a sore throat?

Sore throats can be caused by any of the following medical conditions:

1. VIRUSES: Most viral sore throats accompany the common cold. Although they may be uncomfortable no treatment is usually necessary. However, the viral infection of mononucleosis or “mono” needs to monitored under a physician’s care.
2. BACTERIA: Many of the bacterial sore throats are caused by streptococcus bacteria, which is why it is called strep throat. These infections usually cause high fevers. Strep test are used to test for this type of infection. However, they do not test for other kinds of bacteria. Tonsilitis (inflammation of tonsils) usually suggests an infection of a different type of bacteria. If it remains constant, tonsilitis may suggest that the infection is not fully eliminated between treatments.
3. IRRITATIONS: These may have multiple causes. Allergies, pollutants, chemicals, vocal straining, foods or dry air may all cause problems in different people. The key to irritants is to find the source and eliminate it if possible.
4. REFLUX: Morning hoarseness or sore throats is a common complaint for people with reflux. When acid backflows into the esophagus, it can travel high enough to cause sore throats. Hoarseness, voice changes, or throat discomfort lasting greater than two weeks needs to be reported.
5. TUMORS: Mild sore throats and difficulty swallowing may be symptoms of a tumor. See your doctor right away for further evaluation

WHEN SHOULD I SEE A DOCTOR?

The following symptoms should alert you to see your physician:

-Sever and prolonged sore throat

-Difficulty breathing

-Difficulty swallowing

-Difficulty opening the mouth

-Joint pain

-Fever > 101

-Blood in saliva or phlegm

-Frequent or recurring sore throat

-Lump in neck

-Hoarseness lasting over two weeks