Mild throat irritation is common in people who sleep with their mouths open, which causes the throat to become dry and scratchy, or who have postnasal drip. Viral infections such as influenza and colds are common causes of sore throat. Sore throats also can be caused by bacteria, usually from the streptococcal strain.
Antibiotics are the treatment of choice for strep.
A viral sore throat, on the other hand, usually has other associated symptoms such as a runny, congested nose, headache, and cough. These symptoms indicate a typical cold or influenza and rarely require a doctor's visit. It is important to remember that a viral sore throat cannot be treated with antibiotics. Sore throat is accompanied by fever of 102 degrees F or above and symptoms are limited to throat only. A mild sore throat lasts more than seven days.