Sore Throat

A sore throat is a common symptom of a variety of medical conditions, including colds and the flu. It is usually caused by inflammation of the throat and can be accompanied by a number of other symptoms such as a fever, swelling of the lymph nodes, and difficulty swallowing. The most common cause of a sore throat is a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu, but bacterial infections, allergies, and even environmental irritants can also be responsible. Treatment options vary depending on the cause, but often include rest, fluids, over-the-counter pain medications, and lozenges. In more serious cases, antibiotics may be prescribed.