Your sore throat relief specialist
Common causes of sore throat
It may seem to come from nowhere, but sore throats are mostly caused by a viral infection.
Secondary bacterial infections can also cause sore throats. Moreover it can be triggered by environmental factors. Find out more about where sore throats come from.
Viruses
Viruses are the most common cause of sore throat. They can enter your throat area in the air you breathe. If they manage to penetrate the cells in your throat, they can cause infections such as the common cold and influenza. Your body defends itself by becoming inflamed. Substances that are released during the inflammation irritate the nerve fibres in the throat – and suddenly you have a sore throat!
Bacteria
Bacteria can also cause sore throat, though it usually comes as a secondary infection after an initial infection by a virus. The most common bacterial cause of sore throat is the bacteria called streptococcus; this is known as “strep throat”. Tonsillitis can arise from bacterial infection; white spots on the tonsils is a symptom of this painful condition. Antibiotics are effective against this kind of infection.
Environmental factors
What other things in your environment might cause sore throat? From mild sore throat to stronger pain: these factors can all make your throat sore.
- Cigarette smoke and other irritants: inhaling cigarette smoke, air pollution and dust can irritate the delicate membrane lining the throat.
- Strong alcohol and very spicy food can also be powerful irritants.
- Allergies: inhaling air-borne allergens such as pollens can make your throat sore.
- Dry air: air conditioners and heaters can make indoor air extremely dry, especially if you tend to
breathe through your mouth.
