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- Medical name: Pharyngitis
- 90% of infectious causes are viral
- Lasting longer than a week is usually do to irritants
- Important not to use antibiotics for viral sore throats
- Also a symptom of mononucleosis
- Some home treatments: Lemon, honey, drink plenty of fluids, gargle with salt water, throat lozenge or hard candy, humidify air, rest voice, pain relievers
- Children and teens most likely affected
- Most common reason for doctor visits
- Symptom of many illnesses
- Almost always includes tonsils
- Should clear up in a week
- Often the first sign of a cold
- Doctor will do a strep test to determine if it is viral or bacteria
- Can also be caused by smoking
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In most cases, sore throats are caused by viruses, the same germs that cause the common cold and flu. To a lesser degree a sore throat can be caused by bacteria like in strep throat and tonsillitis.
Due to the fact that the germs that cause sore throats are contagious they can easily spread where there are several people present such as schools and work places.
Not all sore throats are caused by germs, they can also be cause by allergies, dryness, pollution and GERD to name a few.
Prevention
Although painful and bothersome, most sore throats go away without medical treatment. The best way to prevent sore throats is by hand washing. Other preventative measures would include not sharing eating or drinking utensils and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have a Sore Throat, please consult your doctor.
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Sore Throat Questions
Whats the best sore throat cure? 5 AnswersBest sore throat cures I've found to date: This list will be compiled based on "some" anecdotal evidence, as well as clinical evidence. Slippery elm extract is... read more
I hate sore throats! Does anybody know how to cure them? 5 AnswersThe Classics work the best, Tea with Honey, My favorite are Ricolas, Warm showers, Almost anything warm is helpful. I would also suggest purchasing a cheap humi... read more
Does anyone know where i can get a strep test done? 1 AnswerI just know of going to the doctors office to get it done. Its unfortunate, because you have to pay a copay for such a simple procedure. I think in the near ... read more
Does raw cucumber help a sore throat? 4 AnswersYes, raw cucumbers can help a sore throat, yet raw cucumber juice also helps a sore throat. I've also read and have been told that ginger tea or boiling ginger... read more




