Sore throats are very common and usually resolve without specific treatment.

Of the infections that cause sore throat, viral infections are most common. Less often, you may have a bacterial infection called strep throat.

Infections are not the only cause of sore throats. Allergies causing nasal congestion with mouth breathing and acid reflux are two non-infectious causes of sore throat.

Rarely, a sore throat can be a sign of a serious disorder that needs immediate medical attention. Certain causes of a sore throat could block off your airway and stop your breathing if left untreated.

Do you have one or more of the following symptoms:

• shortness of breath

• such severe pain that you cannot swallow

• drooling?

Yes, I am experiencing one or more of these symptoms.

No, I do not have these symptoms.

Most sore throats last only a few days and rarely continue beyond two weeks. Throat infections and nasal congestion from a cold or allergies are common reasons to have a sore throat.

A sore throat that persists for longer than two weeks usually means that a throat infection is unlikely.

Have you had a sore throat for more than two weeks?

Yes, my throat has been sore for more than two weeks.

No, my sore throat started more recently