Q7. Why do we get a sore throat?

A7. A sore throat occurs for many reasons. Often it is part of a head cold along with a runny nose, cough and a fever. It is also a sign of a throat infection such as strep throat.

Other times it is one of several symptoms of an underlying disease, for example, sinusitis.

A sore throat can develop as a symptom of an allergy, overstraining the voice or lifestyle factors such as smoking. It can also occur as a side effect of a certain medication.

Sore throats are very common and all of us will experience them at some point in our lives.

Find out more in our causes of a sore throat section.

FAQS Index : Sore throat FAQ

Sore throat FAQs

1. What does the throat consist of?
2. What does the throat do?
3. What is the larynx?
4. What are the tonsils?
5. How do the vocal cords work?
6. What enables us to speak?
7. Why do we get a sore throat?
8. Can you treat a sore throat with antibiotics?
9. Why does my child get lots of sore throats?
10. What is diphtheria?
11. What is croup?
12. What is quinsy?
13. What is acid reflux?
14. What is strep throat?
15. What is the difference between a viral throat infection and a bacterial throat infection?

16. Why do children have frequent episodes of tonsillitis?
17. What are adenoids?
18. Do you need to have your tonsils removed?
19. What are the different types of throat cancer?
20. What causes throat cancer?
21. How is throat cancer treated?
22. Can oral sex damage the throat?
23. What effect does your lifestyle have on your throat?
24. Why are singers prone to throat problems?
25. Why does being overweight affect your throat?
26. Can you treat a sore throat at home?
27. My child has a sore throat; do I need to see my GP?
28. What causes someone to lose their voice?
29. Can you prevent a sore throat?
30. Why is it important to look after your throat?