Causes of sore throats range from infections to injuries. Here are eight of the most common sore throat causes. It’s benefit for your health.
1. Colds, the flu, and other viral infections
Sore throat is usually caused by a viral infection. Among the viruses that cause sore throats are:UFABET
- the common cold
- influenza — the flu
- COVID-19
- mononucleosis, an infectious disease that’s transmitted through saliva
- measles, an illness that causes a rash and fever
- chickenpox, an infection that causes a fever and an itchy, bumpy rash
- mumps, an infection that causes swelling of the salivary glands in the neck
2. Strep throat and other bacterial infections
Bacterial infections can also cause sore throats. The most common one is strep throat, an infection of the throat and tonsils caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria.
Strep throat causes nearly 20-30% of sore throat cases in children. Tonsillitis and sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea and chlamydia can also cause a sore throat.
3. Allergies
When the immune system reacts to allergy triggers like pollen, grass, and pet dander, it releases chemicals that cause symptoms like nasal congestion, watery eyes, sneezing, and throat irritation.
Excess mucus in the nose can drip down the back of the throat. This is called postnasal drip and can irritate the throat.
4. Dry air
Dry air can suck moisture from the mouth and throat, and leave them feeling dry and scratchy. The air is most likely dry in the winter months when the heater is running.
5. Smoke, chemicals, and other irritants
Many different chemicals and other substances in the environment irritate the throat, including:
- any type of smoke, including tobacco smoke
- air pollution
- cleaning products and other chemicals
- aerosolized sprays, such as air fresheners
Immediately after September 11, more than 90% of rescue workers reported experiencing an acute cough, with many also reporting upper airway symptoms like sore throat and nasal congestion.