Viral Conditions

• The most frequently occurring viral conditions that cause sore throat are cold, flu and mononucleosis. Common colds can be caused by a number of viruses. Besides sore throat, symptoms also include runny or stuffy nose, low-grade fever, body aches, cough and fatigue. While the symptoms of the flu are similar to those of a cold, the flu tends to bring on more intense versions of these symptoms and may last longer than a cold. The flu also may cause stomach upset and a higher fever. Mononucleosis causes extreme fatigue for an extended period of time, sore throat and glands in the neck, low-grade fever and headaches.The greatest danger with mono is that the spleen is enlarged, which can be painful.
  
  

Other Viral Conditions

• Less common viral conditions that usually cause sore throat include chicken pox, measles and croup. Measles causes not only a sore throat, but also fever, cough, runny nose and a red blotchy skin rash. The measles vaccine usually is very effective in preventing this disease. Chicken pox, whose occurrence, has been reduced by vaccines, is very contagious and causes sore throat, fever, headache, loss of appetite and irritability. The primary sign of chicken pox is a rash of small, itchy, fluid-filled bumps all over the body. Croup can cause sore throat, usually as a result of excessive coughing. Croup is characterized by a loud cough, but the condition usually isn't serious and clears up fairly rapidly.
  
  

Bacterial Conditions

• Strep throat, tonsillitis and diphtheria are conditions caused by bacteria, resulting in a sore throat. Strep throat causes pain and swelling in the throat, which often is accompanied by small white patches and pus pockets. Other symptoms include fever, headache, rash and possibly stomach upset. Strep throat is best treated with antibiotics; if left untreated, it can present significant harm to the kidneys and heart. Tonsillitis can be caused by viruses or bacteria. If bacteria are present but not strep, the condition is usually termed tonsillitis. Diphtheria is a rare disease that is preventable with vaccination. This condition causes sore throat, fatigue, swollen glands and a thick, grayish coating in the back of the throat and tonsils. Diphtheria can damage the nervous system and internal organs, which can result in death.