Health Tip: Warning Signs of a Serious Sore Throat

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.