Almost every single person will experience a sore throat at some point in their life. Most often the sore throat will just disappear without much outside help. The most common cause of sore throats is the every day cold. Laryngitis, mononucleosis, mumps, herpangina, and influenza are other common causes of sore throats. It is easiest to deal with a sore throat from a cold. A sore throat may also come from a more serious problem known as bacterial infections. Tonsillitis and strep are examples of bacterial infections. A person may even get a sore throat from environmental causes. Dust, smoking, and loud yelling can cause a sore throat.
Often home treatment is all that is needed to combat a sore throat. You can buy over the counter items such as throat lozenges and hard candy. Natural honey and tea will also help soothe a sore throat. You can also purchase some pain medication and/or some cold medication that will help a lot. When you have a bacterial infection you will need to go to a doctor and get a prescription for antibiotics. Home remedies will not work, while they may provide some mild comfort. You do not need antibiotics for viral infections.
Sore throats can signify a medical condition other than a bacterial or viral infection. The most common reason someone gets a sore scratchy throat is because they have acid reflux disease, also known as GERD. This occurs when the stomach acid comes back up through the throat and irritates it. You usually will not have any other symptoms but a sore throat and heartburn, so it is important to explore this as option. Sore throats may also be a symptom of an allergic reaction to something. It is important to be aware of your body and what it is responding to and react accordingly.