A sore throat is pain, scratchiness or irritation of the throat that often worsens when you swallow. The most common cause of a sore throat (pharyngitis) is a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu. A sore throat caused by a virus resolves on its own.
Symptoms of a sore throat can vary depending on the cause. Signs and symptoms might include:
Pain or a scratchy sensation in the throat
Pain that worsens with swallowing or talking
Difficulty swallowing
Sore, swollen glands in your neck or jaw
Swollen, red tonsils
White patches or pus on your tonsils
A hoarse or muffled voice
Infections causing a sore throat might result in other signs and symptoms, including:
Fever
Cough
Runny nose
Sneezing
Body aches
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
See your doctor if you have a sore throat and any of the following associated problems:
A sore throat that is severe or lasts longer than a week
