Sore Throat
Pain, scratchiness, or irritation of the throat that often worsens when swallowing, commonly caused by viral or bacterial infection.
Conditions associated with sore throat
The following conditions have been associated with sore throat in medical literature. This is informational and not a diagnosis.
Common Cold
A mild viral infection of the nose and throat causing runny nose, congestion, sneezing, and sore throat....
Epiglottitis
Inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis that can block the airway, a medical emergency....
Gonorrhea
A sexually transmitted bacterial infection that can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat, often causing dis...
HIV Infection
A viral infection that attacks the immune system. With treatment, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives...
Infectious Mononucleosis
A viral infection commonly caused by Epstein-Barr virus, characterized by fever, sore throat, and swollen lymp...
Influenza
A contagious respiratory viral infection causing fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, and fatigue....
Laryngitis
Inflammation of the voice box causing hoarseness and loss of voice, usually viral....
Streptococcal Pharyngitis
A bacterial throat infection caused by group A streptococcus, characterized by severe sore throat, fever, and ...
Tonsillitis
Inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infection, causing sore throat, fever, and swo...
Tests providers may use to investigate sore throat
When investigating sore throat, a healthcare provider may order one or more of the following laboratory tests. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Chlamydia & Gonorrhea Urine Test
This urine test is used to detect both gonorrhea and chlamydia, two bacterial STDs. Chlamydia and gonorrhea ar...
Gonorrhea Urine Test
This urine test detects the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae that causes gonorrhea. Gonorrhea is a contagious s...
Hiv 4Th Generation Antigen/Antibody Test
HIV 4th Generation DUO Tests detect HIV antibodies and P24 antigens, while 3rd generation tests detect only HI...
Hiv Rna Blood Test
The HIV RNA blood test is used for early detection of HIV. Standard HIV tests measure the levels of the antibo...
Mono Test Mononucleosis - Blood Testing
Our Mono (Mononucleosis) test is used to help diagnose cases of infectious mononucleosis. Mono is often caused...
Mononucleosis Test
Detects heterophile antibodies associated with infectious mononucleosis....
Std Test Panel W/ Early Detection Hiv Rna
The Early Detection Comprehensive Panel includes early detection testing for the following seven sexually tran...
Symptoms commonly seen alongside sore throat
Lower Abdominal Pain
Pain in the lower abdomen, which can be related to bladder, bowel, or reproductive organs....
Painful Urination
Burning, stinging, or discomfort when urinating, most commonly caused by a urinary tract infection....
Postnasal Drip
Mucus that drips down the back of the throat from the nose, which can cause coughing and a sore throat....
Sneezing
Sudden, forceful expulsion of air from the nose and mouth, common in allergies and colds....
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Enlarged lymph nodes that can occur with infection, immune reactions, or certain cancers....
Swollen Neck Lymph Nodes
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, often a sign of infection, inflammation, or other conditions....
When to seek care
Seek care from a qualified healthcare provider if sore throat is severe, persistent, worsening, or accompanied by concerning symptoms. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the symptom sore throat mean?
Sore Throat is a health sign or symptom described in medical literature. Pain, scratchiness, or irritation of the throat that often worsens when swallowing, commonly caused by viral or bacterial infection.
Which conditions are associated with sore throat?
Sore Throat has been reported in association with 9 conditions in the medical literature we index, including Common Cold, Epiglottitis, Gonorrhea, HIV Infection, Infectious Mononucleosis. These associations do not mean you have any of these conditions.
Should I see a doctor about sore throat?
You should discuss any persistent or concerning symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider. This website does not provide diagnosis. If you have severe symptoms or signs of a medical emergency, seek care immediately.