The short answer
A sore throat is almost always caused by a virus or bacteria and clears within a week or two. A sore throat that lasts more than about three weeks, or comes with a lump in the neck, ear pain, or trouble swallowing, can occasionally signal throat cancer and is worth checking.
Almost all sore throats are from infections and clear within two weeks.
A sore throat lasting more than about three weeks is worth checking.
A neck lump, ear pain, or trouble swallowing with it is more concerning.
Risk is higher for people who smoke or drink heavily.
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The full explanation.
The simple version
Sore throats are extremely common and almost always caused by viruses or bacteria. They usually settle within a week or two. Throat cancer is uncommon, but a sore throat that just will not go away is worth checking.
What usually causes a sore throat
The common causes are colds and other viral infections, strep throat, tonsillitis, allergies, dry air, acid reflux, and overusing the voice. These typically improve within a couple of weeks.
When a sore throat is more worth checking
A sore throat is more worth a doctor's look when it lasts more than about three weeks, or comes with a lump in the neck, persistent ear pain on one side, trouble or pain swallowing, hoarseness, or a white or red patch in the mouth or throat. Risk is higher for people who smoke or drink heavily, or who have had HPV-related throat conditions.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for a sore throat that lasts more than about three weeks or comes with a neck lump, one-sided ear pain, or swallowing trouble. Most sore throats are from infections and clear on their own.
Words to know
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Common questions
▸Does a sore throat mean cancer?
Almost never. Sore throats are almost always from infections and clear within two weeks. A sore throat lasting more than about three weeks is worth checking.
▸When should a sore throat be checked?
When it lasts more than about three weeks or comes with a neck lump, one-sided ear pain, trouble swallowing, or a mouth patch.
▸Who is at higher risk of throat cancer?
People who smoke or drink heavily, and those with certain HPV-related conditions, have a higher risk.
▸What usually causes a sore throat?
Colds and other viruses, strep throat, tonsillitis, allergies, dry air, and reflux are common causes.
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