Health Tip: What's Behind a Sore Throat?

(HealthDay News) -- A sore throat is among the most common medical maladies. But it shouldn't be ignored, since a sore throat could represent a harmless problem or a serious illness such as strep throat.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says possible causes of a sore throat include:

  • A virus, such as the flu or common cold.

  • A bacterial infection.

  • An allergy.

  • Dry air.

  • Air pollution.

  • Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke.

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