We all know the symptoms: that itchy, tingling sensation that’s often accompanied by a raw feeling and painful swallowing. What is causing that sore throat will determine how you can best treat your symptoms, and knowing when to see a doctor may help you identify and correct a more serious condition.

What Causes Sore Throats?

Sore throats can be caused by a wide range of conditions. Among some of the most common:

Viral Infections

Most sore throats are caused by a viral infection, like the cold or flu. They can also be caused by – and signal the onset of – more serious viral infections, such as mononucleosis (mono), measles, chickenpox or croup, which is common in young children.

In most cases of viral infections, a doctor will tell you to let the virus run its course and suggest home remedies to manage the symptoms, including over-the-counter (OTC) medications, clear fluids and rest.

Bacterial Infections

Like viral infections, bacterial infections are common causes for sore throats, and many childhood illnesses, like strep throat or whooping cough, cause these aches.

The majority of bacterial infections will require antibiotics to treat the cause of the infection, along with home remedies to manage pain symptoms while you heal.