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What causes a sore throat? Pharmacists say the most common causes of sore throats include: Viral and bacterial infections Experts believe strep throat is a common type of throat infection that happens due to exposure to a strain of Streptococcus bacterium. Strep throat accounts for more than 30 per cent of sore throats in children and around 10 per cent in adults. A strep throat can only be treated with the help of antibiotics to fight the infection and prevent further complications, as without these, the condition can increase the risk of rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation in kids. Air conditioner Mostly, people do not realise that air conditioning can be a major cause of sore throat irritation during summer and rainy seasons. Spending a lot of time in dry and artificially cooled environments - whether at home or your office can dry out the throat, making it feel scratchy or sore and causing infections. For those who frequently sit in air-conditioned spaces, experts recommend staying hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids throughout the day. Allergies It is not realised by most people that seasonal allergies are a major cause of sore throats. Postnasal drip, where congestion in the nose or sinuses from pollen exposure starts to drain down the back of the throat, causes a constant tickle or scratchy sensation that can linger for days. Other causes A few other common causes of a sore throat include:

• Irritation due to dry heat, pollutants, or chemicals
• Acid reflux - which happens when your stomach acids come up into the back of the throat
• HIV infection
• Tumours of the throat, tongue, or larynx

Signs and symptoms of a sore throat You may experience a scratchy sensation in your throat along with pain while swallowing or even talking. A few other accompanying symptoms include:

• Sore or swollen lymph nodes in the neck or jaw area
• Inflamed tonsils
• A hoarse or muffled voice
• Coughing
• Sneezing and a runny nose
• High fever
• Easy ways to treat a sore throat

While a sore throat can mostly resolve without treatment, doctors say it also depends on the cause. If your sore throat happens due to a bacterial infection, you will be prescribed a course of antibiotics. However, it is important to note that sore throats due to a viral infection do not need medical treatment, but you can take a pain or fever reliever. It is important always to follow the instructions on any medication and not to take more than the guidelines suggest. Other natural remedies include:

• Taking rest
• Drinking lots of fluids to keep the throat moist
• Using a humidifier
• Consuming cold treats like popsicles
• Gargling with warm saltwater
• Using honey to soothe a sore throat, except for children one year old or younger