Definition

Sore throat is a painful inflammation of the pharynx. The pharynx (pronounced FAAR-ingks) is the part of the throat that lies between the mouth and the larynx (pronounced LAAR-ingks), or voice box. It is associated most commonly with the common cold (see common cold entry) or influenza (the flu; see influenza entry). While most sore throats heal without complications, in some cases, they develop into a serious illness.

Description

Almost everyone gets a sore throat at one time or another. Children tend to have them more often than adolescents or adults. Sore throats are most common during the winter months. Infections of the upper respiratory (breathing) tract are more common then and these infections can cause a sore throat.

Sore throats can be either acute or chronic. An acute sore throat comes on suddenly and usually lasts three to seven days while a chronic sore...