Sore throats are very common and lead to a large number of emergency department visits each year.
While most are not serious, Dr. Helene Connolly, a specialist in emergency medicine and medical director at Mercy Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago, says people need to be aware of possible complications. But it's important to be able to recognize symptoms that signal a more serious illness. Most sore throats are caused by viruses. They are usually uncomplicated, last only a few days, and can be relieved temporarily without prescription medication. Bacteria is responsible for sore throat, tonsillitis and even abscesses.