A sore and dry throat might be caused by a number of factors, including common viruses, post-nasal drip and bacterial infections. Most sore throats are caused by a virus and are related to other illnesses, such as the flu or mononucleosis. Post-nasal drip that accompanies a sinus infection might also cause a sore and dry throat. This type of sore throat often occurs when a person has a cold or allergic symptoms. Finally, the streptococcus bacteria is another common cause of a throat infection and can result in strep throat.
Each of these instances might cause a person to experience irritation, inflammation and scratchiness in the throat. Typically, the back of the throat might also get dried out and can cause pain when the individual tries to talk or swallow. The tonsils and lymph nodes might also become inflamed or enlarged. In cases of bacterial infections, such as strep throat, the tonsils might also develop small, white bumps. If a person experiences enlargement of the lymph nodes or tonsils or notices any bumps on the tonsils, he or she should see a doctor for a strep test or throat culture.
Most sore throats cannot be cured, although they can be temporarily relieved. Bacterial throat infections, such as strep throat, are the exception, because they can be treated with an antibiotic. If a person suffers from a generally sore and dry throat, he or she might try one of several home remedies to relieve the pain. Gargling salt water, using throat sprays or lozenges and drinking warm liquids can help soothe an irritated throat. Pain relief medications containing acetaminophen or ibuprofen might also provide some relief for a dry throat.
Though an average sore and dry throat cannot be cured, it generally will go away on its own within a week. If the symptoms persist longer than a week, the person should see a doctor or seek medical treatment, because the sore throat might be a symptom of something more severe. In serious cases, a sore throat could be a symptom of rheumatic fever or throat cancer.
If a person shows symptoms of strep thought, he or she should seek out a doctor right away for a diagnosis. If strep throat goes untreated, it can develop into something worse and can cause severe complications throughout the body. When strep throat is properly treated with antibiotics, it can go away within a few days.