Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment Of A Sore Throat

8. Miscellaneous Rare Causes

In very rare cases, a sore throat may be caused by an abscess or an infected area of tissue in the throat. Epiglottitis is another rare cause of a sore throat. It occurs when a small piece of cartilage that covers the windpipe like a lid swells up and becomes infected, resulting in an impaired airflow. Both conditions can block the airway and create a medical emergency. Seek immediate treatment anytime there is difficulty breathing.

7. Risk Factors

Anyone can develop a sore throat; however, it is most likely to occur in people suffering from a cold. Other risk factors include age, the frequency of tobacco use, exposure to chemical irritants, allergies, being in close quarters with an infected person, a weakened immune system, or chronic sinus and upper respiratory infections. A sore throat, particularly strep throat, is most common in children and teens. Smokers and people with allergies may experience a sore throat more frequently. Individuals with weakened immunity, such as those who take chemotherapy or steroids, are chronically stressed, fatigued, or have a poor a diet, are more likely to develop a sore throat.