Sore Throat

What is a sore throat?

A sore throat is the term for pain, scratchiness, or irritation of your throat that’s typically exacerbated when you swallow. You might experience various symptoms of a sore throat, such as:

• Red and swollen tonsils
• A scratchy pain or sensation in your throat
• Pain that worsens when you talk or swallow
• Difficulty swallowing
• White patches or pus on your tonsils
• A hoarse or muffled voice
• Sore and swollen glands in your neck or jaw

Some of the infections that cause a sore throat might lead to other symptoms, such as:

• Headache
• Vomiting or nausea
• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Body aches

If you or your family member has concerning and bothersome symptoms of a sore throat, you should visit Smart Clinic Urgent Care for evaluation and treatment.

What causes a sore throat?

A bacterial infection often causes a sore throat. Strep throat (streptococcal infection) is a common type of sore throat caused by a bacterium.

Many sore throats are the result of the same viruses that cause the flu (influenza) and the common cold. Other viral infections can also lead to a sore throat, such as:

• Chickenpox
• Croup — a common childhood illness involving a harsh cough
• Mononucleosis (mono)
• Measles 

Other causes of a sore throat include:

• Muscle strain
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• HIV infection
• Allergies
• Dry indoor air
• Pollutants and irritants
• Tumors

In rare cases, a sore throat can be the result of infected tissue.

Some of the factors that increase your risk of getting a sore throat include smoking tobacco, having a weakened immune system, and having chronic or frequent sinus infections.

How is a sore throat treated?

To obtain a diagnosis, your Smart Clinic Urgent Care provider usually performs a physical exam and any other necessary testing — such as a throat swab or strep test that generates results promptly in minutes. 

Smart Clinic Urgent Care offers solutions to treat your sore throat, such as antibiotics if your sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection or medications to ease pain and fever.

You can also try drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, resting, and consuming comforting food and beverages like tea and soup. Avoid irritants like cigarette smoke and chemical cleaning products.

To prevent a sore throat, you can also try avoiding germs that cause them and practicing good hygiene. Make sure you wash your hands regularly and boost your immune system with a healthier lifestyle.

For more information or if you have questions or concerns about a sore throat, call Smart Clinic Urgent Care, walk-in, or book online today.