Throat pain is a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Throat pain can be due to infections by viruses and bacteria, which lead to inflammation of the pharynx and tonsils.

Symptoms accompanying throat pain include a difficulty in swallowing, redness of the throat and tonsils, fever and enlarged lymph nodes.

The most typical cause of throat pain is cold and flu. Other causes include viral and bacterial infections, smoke, allergens, irritants, pollution, smoking, exposure to dry and cold air, gastroesophageal reflux disease and tumours.

Throat pain can be prevented by gargling regularly, eating outside food and cold drinks and giving adequate rest to the throat.

Long-standing throat pain could be due to gastroesophageal reflux disease or a tumour. One should consult a doctor for prompt diagnosis and treatment.