Most sore throats are the result of a throat infection. The throat infection can be caused by viruses like the common cold, flu, mononucleosis or by bacteria like streptococcus. The result is the same for both types of infection, scratchy sore throat pain and difficulty swallowing.
The leading cause of most a throat infection is the common cold virus. A viral throat infection cannot be treated with antibiotics and must be allowed to run its course. A sore throat usually shows up at the onset of every cold along with sinus drainage irritating the back of the throat. Over-the-counter fever and pain relievers are the recommended treatment for most viral throat infections.
Antibiotics are used to a treat throat infection caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus, which causes a more serious type of infection known as strep throat. The symptoms of both viral and bacterial throat infections are similar and require a trip to the doctor’s office to determine the specific cause. If strep is found to be the cause of the throat infection it is important to get antibiotics started quickly in order to prevent rare but serious complications that can affect the heart and kidneys if left untreated. Even though most throat infection symptoms will improve rapidly after beginning antibiotic treatment, it is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed. Bacterial contagion due to strep throat infection is usually halted after 24 hours have passed. There is a variety of sore throat remedies aviliable both over the counter but our particular method is more effective as a sore throat cure.
Less common is a third type of throat infection caused by allergic reaction. Chronic allergic sinus problems like allergic rhinitis can irritate and ultimately cause a throat infection. Allergic throat infections are not be treated with antibiotics. Symptoms of allergic throat infection will subside when the underlying allergy is treated.