(HealthDay News) -- A sore throat can be triggered by allergies or by something more serious, such as a bacterial or viral infection.
So how do you know when a sore throat is more serious? The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mentions these warning signs:
- If the sore throat persists longer than a week.
- If there are problems swallowing or breathing.
- If there's excessive drooling among younger children.
- If there's a temperature higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
- If there are patches of pus on the back of the throat.
- If a skin rash develops.
- If there is blood in the phlegm or saliva.
- If there are symptoms of dehydration, including fatigue, dry mouth, infrequent urination or no tears.
- If there has been exposure to someone with strep throat.
