Sore Throat

A sore throat — pain, scratchiness, or irritation that often worsens with swallowing — is most commonly caused by the same viruses responsible for the common cold and flu.

Is a Sore Throat Contagious?

Whether a sore throat is contagious depends entirely on its cause: viral and bacterial sore throats (including strep throat) spread easily through respiratory droplets and are contagious, while a sore throat from allergies, dry air, or acid reflux is not. As a general rule, if a cold or flu virus caused it, assume it's contagious until symptoms improve.

Common Causes

Viral infections cause the large majority of sore throats. Less commonly, bacteria (most notably group A strep, causing "strep throat") are responsible, and tend to cause more severe pain, fever, and swollen glands without a cough. Tonsillitis — inflammation specifically of the tonsils — is a related but distinct presentation, and allergies, dry indoor air, and acid reflux can also cause a sore throat unrelated to infection.

Home Care

Warm salt water gargles, throat lozenges, warm liquids like tea with honey, and staying hydrated can ease discomfort while a viral sore throat runs its course, typically within a week.

When to See a Doctor

See a doctor if a sore throat is severe, lasts more than a week, comes with a high fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or a rash — strep throat and other bacterial causes need antibiotic treatment and a proper test to confirm.