Viruses are the most common cause of sore throat. A sore throat caused by a cold virus usually resolves in one to two weeks without treatment. On the other hand, a sore throat caused by the streptococcus bacterium (strep throat) should be treated with antibiotics to prevent damage to the heart valves. Generally, streptococcus bacteria cause a more severe sore throat and a higher fever than viral sore throats. Sneezing, runny nose, and cough more frequently accompany sore throats due to a cold virus, rather than streptococcus infections. Sometimes, a throat culture is necessary to establish the cause of the sore throat.
Medications that are available OTC for the temporary relief of sore throat due to the common cold usually contain anesthetics such as benzocaine and dyclonine or menthol and come in the form of lozenges, gargles, and sprays. Children often prefer Popsicles, ice cream, yogurt, pudding, smoothies, or other cool/soft foods in lieu of traditional medications. Aside from their analgesic effects, these foods also provide some nutritional benefit.
