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Feb 23, 2023 · Pharyngitis is a sore throat caused by viruses or bacteria that can be transmitted by saliva, mucus, or nasal discharge. Learn how to distinguish viral and bacterial pharyngitis, how long it is contagious, and what complications to watch out for.
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Symptoms of a sore throat can vary depending on the cause. Signs and symptoms might include:
•Pain or a scratchy sensation in the throat
•Pain that worsens with swallowing or talking
•Difficulty swallowing
•Sore, swollen glands in your neck or jaw
•Swollen, red tonsils
Take your child to a doctor if your child's sore throat doesn't go away with the first drink in the morning, recommends the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Get immediate care if your child has severe signs and symptoms such as:
•Difficulty breathing
•Difficulty swallowing
•Unusual drooling, which might indicate an inability to swallow
If you're an adult, see your doctor if you have a sore throat and any of the following associated problems, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery:
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Viral infections
Viral illnesses that cause a sore throat include:
Bacterial infections
Many bacterial infections can cause a sore throat. The most common is Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus) which causes strep throat.
Other causes
Other causes of a sore throat include:
Although anyone can get a sore throat, some factors make you more susceptible, including:
•Age. Children and teens are most likely to develop sore throats. Children ages 3 to 15 are also more likely to have strep throat, the most common bacterial infection associated with a sore throat.
•Exposure to tobacco smoke. Smoking and secondhand smoke can irritate the throat. The use of tobacco products also increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat and voice box.
•Allergies. Seasonal allergies or ongoing allergic reactions to dust, molds or pet dander make developing a sore throat more likely.
•Exposure to chemical irritants. Particles in the air from burning fossil fuels and common household chemicals can cause throat irritation.
•Chronic or frequent sinus infections. Drainage from your nose can irritate your throat or spread infection.
The best way to prevent sore throats is to avoid the germs that cause them and practice good hygiene. Follow these tips and teach your child to do the same:
•Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet, before and after eating, and after sneezing or coughing.
•Avoid touching your face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
•Avoid sharing food, drinking glasses or utensils.
•Cough or sneeze into a tissue and throw it away, and then wash your hands. When necessary, sneeze into your elbow.
•Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers as an alternative to washing hands when soap and water aren't available.
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A sore throat (pharyngitis) can be caused by viral infections, such as colds or flu, or by bacterial infections, such as strep throat. Learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a sore throat, when to see a doctor, and how to prevent and treat it.
Dec 27, 2023 · Pharyngitis is a sore throat that can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or noninfectious factors. Learn how to diagnose and treat pharyngitis, when to see a provider, and how to prevent complications.
Jul 11, 2017 · Pharyngitis is a sore throat that can be caused by viral or bacterial infections. Learn how to diagnose, prevent, and treat pharyngitis, and whether it is contagious or not.
Learn about the different causes of sore throats, whether they are contagious or not, and how to treat them. Find out how long you or your child may be contagious for various infections, such as viral colds, flu, strep, or mono.
Apr 16, 2024 · Pharyngitis, or sore throat, can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or irritants. It is highly contagious and can spread through respiratory droplets or contact with contaminated objects. Learn how to prevent and treat pharyngitis with proper hygiene and medical advice.
Nov 16, 2023 · Pharyngitis is inflammation of the throat that can be caused by viral or bacterial infections. Both types of pharyngitis are contagious and can spread through coughs, sneezes, or contact with saliva.
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