What Causes an Inflamed Throat?
An inflamed throat can be caused by a variety of issues. Frequently the condition is the result of an infection, either viral or bacterial. People with acid reflux may get sore throats from the acid splashing up from their stomachs. Smoking or exposure to environmental pollutants may also be to blame. Other factors include allergies, excessive breathing through the mouth, and vocal chord strains. The most common cause of an inflamed throat is viral infection. Colds and the flu typically lead to sore throats, both from drainage of infected sinuses into the throat as well as an associated cough. The coxsackie virus can cause blisters in the throat which can be very painful. Mononucleosis infection may involve severe swelling in the throat and tonsils which can impair swallowing. There are also a number of other viruses that typically lead to throat inflammation, including mumps, measles, and whooping cough.
