5 Common Causes of a Sore Throat
                     5 Common Causes of a 
Sore Throat
1.Viral infections like the cold and flu
Viruses cause 85 to 95 per cent of the throat infections in adults, while this probability drops to 7% 
in children aged between 5 and 15. In cases of the common cold and the flu, an itchy throat is one 
of the first common symptoms which occurs, followed immediately by the rest of the symptoms 
like nasal congestion, cough and more. This kind of sore throat is usually cured within a few days of 
first experiencing the symptom. Other kind of viral infections include chicken pox, measles, mumps 
and more. 
2.Bacterial infections
The most common bacterial infection that causes an irritation in the throat is strep throat. This is 
caused by the group A Streptococcus bacteria. This condition mostly affects children since their 
immune systems are still in the process of developing. Some sexually transmitted diseases like 
gonorrhea also fall in this category and are causes of a sore throat.  
3.Pollution 
The quality of the air you breathe can be the underlying cause of your sore throat as well as other respiratory problems. Breathing in polluted 
air daily can end up affecting the health of your lungs in the long run. Headache, tiredness and difficulty breathing are some of the other ill-
effects of degraded air quality and pollution.  
4.Smoking
People who smoke often experience a dryness in the throat along with throat pain and a burning sensation. This is because cigarettes and 
cigars contain harmful chemicals that get stuck in your throat and lungs.  Frequent smokers often develop a condition called the smoker’s 
cough which is a sort of chronic, persistent cough that doesn’t really go away. 
5.Allergies
Some of the common allergy triggers like pollen, dander, mold and other foreign substances can often set off a cough and sneezing spell, along 
with teary eyes and sore throat. While most sore throats go away in a few days, you’ll need to consult a professional for the right diagnosis 
and treatment of your allergy-induced sore throat.