Having a raw, burning, or scratchy throat is unpleasant and painful, but the symptoms normally resolve on their own. A sore throat is typically caused by a common cold or seasonal flu, but a persistent sore throat may indicate an underlying medical condition.
What causes a sore throat?
If you wake up with a sore throat, the most likely cause is a viral infection. A common cold, the flu, or even mononucleosis causes inflammation, irritating the throat and resulting in soreness and difficulty swallowing. Viral infections aren’t the only reason for a sore throat. Other causes include:
Allergies: Pollen, dust mites, pets, or mold can make your throat dry and scratchy. Allergy-related sore throats occur from post-nasal drip when nasal mucus drips down the back of your throat.
Bacterial infections: Strep throat and bacterial sinus infections are other common reasons for a sore throat.
Overuse or irritants: Yelling or screaming can strain your throat and cause hoarseness. You may also develop a sore throat if you eat spicy food, smoke, breathe second-hand smoke, or drink very hot liquids.
Throat or mouth cancer: Malignant growths, which affect approximately 1% of adults, can cause a sore throat.
Tonsillitis: Tonsils are the two small lumps of soft tissue at the back of your throat on either side. A sore throat is a common symptom of tonsillitis.
Acid reflux: If you have a condition called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), you may feel burning and pain in your throat. This pain happens when stomach contents back up to your throat from your stomach.
Mouth breathing: You may have a sore throat if you breathe through your mouth instead of your nose when you’re sleeping.
When To See a Physician
Most sore throats caused by a viral or bacterial infection last a few days and then resolve on their own. You should see a physician if you develop a high fever or swollen lymph nodes along with your sore throat—or if it lasts for a week or more.
An ENT doctor spends 4 years at college, 4 years at medical school, and then 5 to 7 years after that in a residency program specializing in otolaryngology — head and neck surgery. Our board-certified ENTs pass written and oral exams and participate in continuous education to maintain their certification. When you visit one of our Arizona locations, you can trust you're seeing one of the most qualified specialists in the region and that your care will be second to none.
Diagnosing What’s Causing a Sore Throat
A physician diagnoses the cause of your sore throat by examining your throat, tongue, and possibly your ears to see if there are signs of inflammation, redness, or white patches. They may also feel your neck for swollen lymph nodes. If your physician suspects a bacterial infection is causing your sore throat, they may perform a rapid strep test or a throat culture.
Treating a Sore Throat
Treatments for a persistent sore throat depend on the cause. If you have a mild sore throat and want pain relief, over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. Lozenges or throat sprays containing numbing agents like benzocaine can also provide temporary relief.
Other sore throat treatments include:
Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection like strep throat is confirmed, your physician may prescribe antibiotics to help fight the infection and prevent complications.
Home remedies: Gargling with warm salt water, drinking warm tea or broth, and using a humidifier to add moisture to the air are among the home treatments for a sore throat.
Rest and hydration: Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated are essential for recovering from a sore throat.
Surgery: If recurrent tonsillitis is the cause, your physician may advise removing your tonsils. If tumors are found in the mouth or throat, they may recommend a biopsy.
Being prepared will help you get the most out of your appointment. Please bring a list of medications you're currently taking and any pertinent test results—such as labs or imaging—to your appointment. Additionally, let your provider know of any drug allergies or medical conditions you have or for which you are being treated and if you've had any prior surgical procedures.
Visit Our ENT Specialists
A sore throat is a common condition that usually resolves on its own. However, persistent or recurrent sore throats should be evaluated by an ear, nose, and throat specialist to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent complications. If you’re struggling with a persistent sore throat, consult an ENT specialist at Valley ENT to explore the best management options for your specific situation.