Top 5 common sore throat causes and prevention

 

Sore throat causes

The majority of sore throats are caused by viruses or mechanical causes (such as mouth breathing) and can be successfully treated at home.

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

The following five are some of the most common causes of a sore throat:

1.     Viral Infection: Sore throats are most commonly caused by a viral infection, such as the flu or the common cold. Sore throats are also associated with Coxsackie virus-caused hand, foot, and mouth disease and mononucleosis (caused by the Epstein-Barr virus). Symptoms typically resolve on their own within a week to ten days, depending on the type of virus. Some viruses (for example, "mono") cause symptoms for several months. Viruses are not affected by antibiotics.

2.     Bacterial infection: Strep throat is an infection caused by the group A Streptococcus bacterium. Fever and red, swollen tonsils are symptoms of strep throat. Antibiotics can be prescribed by your doctor to treat strep throat. Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and Corynebacterium are lesser common causes of bacterial sore throat.

3.     Allergies: Allergies to pollen, dust mites, pets, or mould can cause a dry, scratchy throat. Postnasal drip causes a sore throat caused by allergies (when mucus from your nose drips down the back of your throat). The mucus irritates and hurts your throat.

4.     Tonsillitis is caused by the two small lumps of soft tissue located at the back of your throat. They capture the germs that cause illness. Tonsillitis is caused by infected and inflamed tonsils. Tonsillitis can be caused by bacteria or viruses.

5.     Overuse of irritants: Yelling, screaming, singing without proper form, or talking for an extended period of time without rest can cause a sore throat. Hot liquids, spicy foods, and smoking can all burn or irritate your throat.

The following are more specific sore throat treatments based on the cause:

1.     Bacterial infection: If a throat swab revealed that you have strep throat, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection. Penicillin and clindamycin are two common antibiotics used to treat strep throat. It is critical to finish the entire course of antibiotics (even if you feel better after a few doses) to prevent the infection from returning.

2.     Viral Infection: Most sore throats are caused by viruses. Your doctor may advise you to drink plenty of fluids, take over-the-counter pain relievers (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen), and rest. Throat lozenges are another option.

3.     Allergies: Antihistamines, which are available over-the-counter, can relieve nasal congestion, which causes postnasal drip.

4.     Lifestyle changes, in addition to over-the-counter antacids, may help relieve heartburn and sore throat. Sleep on your left side with your head elevated slightly. Don't overeat, and avoid eating right before bed. Consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.

5.     Overuse of the voice: Resting your voice will allow your throat to heal. For a few days, try not to talk or sing as much. Tea and other warm liquids are also acceptable. Irritants such as smoke/second-hand smoke and spicy foods can aggravate your sore throat