Sore throat is a common symptom that ranges from simple scratchiness to severe pain. Sore throats commonly occur with colds or the flu. Causes of sore throat, other include:
* dry mucous membranes,
* smoking cigarettes or irritation from drinking alcohol,
* allergies,
* viral or bacterial infections, or
* growths in the throat.

There are several simple methods to help relieve the pain of a sore throat:
* gargle with a commercial mouthwash or a saltwater solution,
* suck a throat lozenge. Some contain a mild anesthetic which may make your mouth feel a bit numb, but it will relieve the pain,
* rest your throat by talking less and by switching to a liquid diet for a short while,
* take aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen (remember that children should not take aspirin) , and
* use a humidifier if the air is dry, or breathe the steam from hot water, as in a hot shower.

You should seek the advice of your healthcare provider if:
* the sore throat lasts more than a few days,
* you have difficulty swallowing,
* you have difficulty catching your breath,
* you have a high temperature (above 104 degrees Fahrenheit) ,
* you develop swollen lymph nodes in your neck, an earache, or joint pains.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go