Common causes of a sore throat include infections, allergens, cancer, cigarette smoke, and dry air.
Even the simple act of shouting or singing loudly can injure your throat, causing pain and inflammation.
And sometimes, seemingly unrelated health issues, such as acid reflux, can also cause a sore throat.
© Verywell, 2018
Common Causes
Thepharynxis the cavity behind the nose and mouth that leads to your stomach and lungs.
It is a common target for infection and irritation that cause asore throat.
Bacterial Infections
A number of bacterial infections can cause a sore throat.
One of the most common isStreptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria associated withstrep throat(streptococcal pharyngitis).
Strep throat is relatively minor, but can sometimes lead to more severe infections or complications.
Strep does not cause respiratory symptoms like a cough and congestion.
Less common bacterial throat infections include:
A rapid strep test can screen for strep throat.
A throat culture can identify or help rule out a bacterial cause.
Antibiotic treatment is based on which bacteria is found.
Other risks include inhaled steroids, wearing dentures, or uncontrolled diabetes.
Oral thrush (oral candidiasis) often doesn’t cause symptoms.
In some cases, it can lead to soreness of the mouth, tongue, and throat.
When it involves the esophagus, candidiasis is considered serious.
Fungal infections like these are treated with antifungal medications.
The tissues dry out, causing a scratchy feeling and irritation.
You may also have postnasal drip as mucus drains from your nasal passages down the back of your throat.
This can lead to inflammation of the throat and tonsils if the mucus is infected.
Or, you may feel like you have a lump in the back of your throat.
Acid Reflux and GERD
Acid reflux triggers when stomach acid or bile backs up toward the throat.
When stomach acid frequently gets up to the throat, this is called laryngopharyngeal reflux.
But here are some that it’s possible for you to have some influence over.
Irritants and Toxins
Exposure to certain substances can cause direct inflammation of the pharynx and associated organs.
This can include inhaled irritants like air pollution, cigarette smoke, and industrial fumes.
Dry air and a lack of humidity can leave your throat feeling dry and scratchy.
This is common in arid climates.
Both hot air and excessive air conditioner use can also cause throat irritation.
Flu Vaccination
Getting an annual shot can help reduce your risk of influenza.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes.
The most common aretonsillitis,GERD, inflammation of thesubmandibular gland, andlaryngopharyngeal reflux.
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