Throat, sore Throat, sore Throat, sore. A sore throat is a symptom of many disorders, including a cold, diphtheria, influenza, laryngitis, measles, mononucleosis, pharyngitis, and tonsillitis. A sore throat may also be caused by heavy smoking. Temporary relief may be obtained by taking medicated throat lozenges, aspirin, or acetaminophen. It is also advisable to stop smoking, to drink plenty of fluids, and to eat soft foods.
Some sore throats are the result of streptococcal pharyngitis.
Although the sore throat will resolve itself even without treatment, antibiotics are prescribed to prevent complications of the strep infection, such as scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, or glomerulonephritis.