Why Does My Throat Hurt? Common Causes of Throat Pain and When to See a Specialist

Throat pain—often described as a sore throat, scratchy throat or burning sensation—is a common symptom that can range from mild irritation to severe discomfort. While many causes are temporary, persistent or chronic throat pain may signal an underlying condition that needs medical attention.

Understanding the common causes of throat pain can help you recognize symptoms early and know when to seek care.

Most Common Causes of Throat Pain

1. Infections (Cold, Flu and Strep Throat)

Viral and bacterial infections are the most frequent causes of sudden throat pain.

Viral infections (like the common cold or flu) often cause sore throat, cough and congestion
Strep throat (bacterial) can lead to severe pain, fever and difficulty swallowing

Most infections can be treated by a primary care provider or urgent care, depending on severity.

2. Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils become inflamed, often due to infection.

Severe, localized throat pain
Swollen tonsils (sometimes with white patches)
Pain when swallowing

3. Acid Reflux (GERD and LPR)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) can cause stomach acid to irritate the throat.

Common symptoms include:

Chronic throat discomfort or burning
Hoarseness or voice changes
A “lump in the throat” sensation (globus)
Frequent throat clearing

4. Allergies and Postnasal Drip

Allergies to pollen, mold or pet dander can lead to excess mucus draining down the throat.

This may cause:

Ongoing throat irritation
Coughing or throat clearing
Mucus buildup in the back of the throat

5. Vocal Strain or Overuse

Overusing your voice—such as yelling, singing or prolonged speaking—can strain the vocal cords.

Common in teachers, coaches and performers
May lead to muscle tension dysphonia or chronic throat discomfort

6. Environmental Irritants

Exposure to irritants can contribute to chronic sore throat symptoms.

Common triggers include:

Smoking or secondhand smoke
Dry indoor air
Air pollution

7. Autoimmune Conditions

Some autoimmune disorders can cause chronic inflammation and dryness in the throat, leading to ongoing discomfort.

8. Injury or Trauma

Throat pain may result from physical irritation or injury, such as:

Scratches from food
Infection-related abscesses
Swelling or localized inflammation

9. Tumors or Growths (Rare)

Although uncommon, a persistent sore throat may be a symptom of cancer in the throat, tongue or voice box—especially if symptoms do not improve over time.

When to See an ENT Specialist for Throat Pain

While many causes of throat pain resolve on their own, certain symptoms should not be ignored.

You should consider seeing an ENT (ear, nose and throat) specialist if you experience:

Throat pain lasting longer than 2–3 weeks
Difficulty or pain with swallowing or breathing
A lump in the neck
Persistent hoarseness or voice changes
Unexplained weight loss
One-sided throat pain that does not improve

Take the Next Step

If your symptoms are new or mild, starting with a primary care provider or urgent care can help determine the cause. For ongoing or more complex concerns, the ENT physicians at Wood County Hospital offer specialized care for conditions affecting the throat, voice and airway.

Don’t ignore persistent throat pain.
Learn more and find a specialist near you.