Sore throat facts for kids

A sore throat, also known as throat pain, is when your throat feels sore, scratchy, or irritated. It's a very common problem that many people experience. About 7.5% of people will have a sore throat during any three-month period.

What Causes a Sore Throat?

Most of the time, a sore throat is caused by a virus. This is similar to getting a common cold or the flu.

Common Causes

• Viruses: These are the most frequent cause. Viruses can lead to conditions like the common cold, flu, or other viral infections that make your throat hurt.
• Bacterial Infections: Sometimes, bacteria can cause a sore throat. A common one is called strep throat. Strep throat needs special medicine from a doctor to get better.
• Tonsillitis: Your tonsils are two small pads of tissue at the back of your throat. If they get infected and swollen, it's called tonsillitis, and it can cause a very sore throat.
• Irritation: Your throat can also get sore from things like yelling a lot, breathing in smoke, or even from allergies.

How to Feel Better

The best way to treat a sore throat depends on what caused it. However, there are many things you can do to help ease the pain and feel more comfortable.

Simple Remedies

• Rest: Giving your body time to rest helps it fight off the infection.
• Drink Liquids: Sip on warm water, tea with honey, or even cold drinks. Staying hydrated is important.
• Throat Lozenges: Sucking on a cough drop or throat lozenge can help soothe your throat. These often have ingredients that make your throat feel numb or cool.
• Gargle with Salt Water: Mixing a little salt in warm water and gargling can help reduce swelling and kill germs.
• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and fever. Always ask a parent or guardian before taking any medicine.

When to See a Doctor

Most sore throats get better on their own in a few days. However, you should see a doctor if:

• Your sore throat is very severe or lasts for more than a few days.
• You have a high fever.
• You have trouble swallowing or breathing.
• You have a rash.
• You think you might have strep throat.