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Sore Throat
(Pharyngitis)

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What causes a sore throat?

A sore throat can have many causes including:

  • Common viruses, including the viruses that cause mononucleosis (mono) and the flu. Some viruses can also produce blisters in the mouth and throat ("aphthous stomatitis").
  • Breathing through the mouth or smoking can produce throat dryness and soreness.
  • Sinus drainage (post nasal drip)
  • Bacterial infections. The two most common bacteria to cause a sore throat are Streptococcus (which causes strep throat) and Arcanobacterium haemolyticum. Arcanobacterium causes sore throats mainly in young adults and is sometimes associated with a fine red rash.
  • Sore throat appearing after treatment with antibiotics, chemotherapy, or other immune-compromising medications may be due to the yeast Candida, a condition commonly known as "thrush."
  • A sore throat lasting for more than two weeks can be a sign of a serious illness, such as throat cancer or AIDS.

What are the symptoms of a sore throat?

Symptoms of sore throat usually include a painful burning or scratching sensation in the back of the throat, pain when swallowing, and sometimes tenderness in the neck.

Other symptoms that may accompany a sore throat include:



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Sore Throat (Pharyngitis) - Treatments Question: Do you use any home remedies for a sore throat?
Sore Throat (Pharyngitis) - Length Symptoms Lasted Question: How long did the symptoms of your sore throat (pharyngitis) last? Was there anything in particular that helped with pain/symptom relief?
Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/sore_throat/article.htm

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