A sore throat is a condition of pain and scratchiness in the throat, which is located just behind the mouth. Also known as pharyngitis, sore throats are typically caused by another illness, such as a viral or bacterial infection.

Sore throats are more common in children between the ages of 4 and 7 years than in any other age group. Some estimates state that sore throat is a symptom in one-third of respiratory illnesses. Children may average about five sore throats each year.

The term “tonsillitis” is often used interchangeably with sore throat, but tonsillitis refers to a particular area of the throat that is inflamed (the tonsils, located at the back of the throat on either side of the mouth). Tonsillitis can cause the throat to be sore.