In most cases, the flu is caused by an influenza virus. This virus spreads by breathing in tiny airborne droplets from someone else’s coughs or sneezes. You can also get the flu if you encounter something contaminated with the virus and then touch your mouth, nose, or eyes. Flu symptoms can appear fast, and you may begin to see symptoms within 1 to 7 days after coming into touch with the virus.

Flu is notorious for spreading fast within an environment. For example, students and coworkers frequently become ill within 2 or 3 weeks after the first flu case in a school or office. Some early flu symptoms can include fatigue, body aches and chills, cough, fever, gastrointestinal issues and headaches. In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between the flu and a sore throat, and outline when to seek medical attention.

Can The Flu Cause a Sore Throat?

The flu is a viral respiratory ailment that causes various unpleasant symptoms. While it is frequently associated with high fever, body aches, and coughing, it can also cause a sore throat.

The respiratory system is the primary target of influenza viruses, and they can irritate the throat's fragile tissues.

This irritation causes sore throat symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain. It is important to recognize that not everyone with the flu gets a sore throat, and the intensity of symptoms varies greatly between people. While a sore throat is an unpleasant side effect of the flu, it is usually a transitory symptom that will disappear as your body fights the infection.

Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications may help relieve discomfort, but consulting a healthcare expert for accurate diagnosis and treatment is critical to properly managing the disease and avoiding any complications.

Other illnesses that can cause a sore throat

Aside from the flu, the sore throat can also be caused by the same viruses that cause the common cold and flu. Some viral infections that can cause a sore throat are:

A painful throat can also be caused by:

• Allergies: A sore throat can be caused by allergies to pet dander, mold, dust, and pollen. Postnasal drip, which can irritate and inflame the throat, may exacerbate the situation.
• Dryness: Dry indoor air can irritate and itch your throat. Breathing via your mouth, which is typically caused by chronic nasal congestion, can also result in a dry, scratchy throat.
• Bacteria: Bacterial infections are also commonly known to cause sore throats. The most common is the Streptococcus pyogenes.

Other common causes are:

• The common cold
• Mono (mononucleosis)
• Measles
• COVID-19

Get Same-Day Care at AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills

It is important to contact a medical professional if you catch the flu and think you might have complications. Seek medical attention if your flu symptoms are severe and self-treatment is not helping. At AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of general illnesses. Visit the walk-in clinic today for flu-like symptom relief!