A sore throat, medically known as Pharyngitis, is a common condition characterized by pain, irritation or scratchiness in the throat. It can make swallowing uncomfortable and sometimes is accompanied by redness, swelling, or the presence of white patches on the throat or tonsils. Sore throats can result from viral infections, such as the common cold or flu, or bacterial infections, such as strep throat. Environmental factors, like dry air, smoking, or exposure to irritants, can also cause throat discomfort without an infection.

The severity and duration of a Sore Throat can vary depending on the underlying cause. Most viral sore throats resolve on their own within a few days, while bacterial infections may require medical evaluation and treatment. Symptoms often appear alongside other signs, such as cough, fever, runny nose or fatigue, helping differentiate the cause. Maintaining hydration, using warm saltwater gargles, throat lozenges, and humidifiers, and avoiding irritants can provide relief and support recovery, while seeking medical attention is important if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing.