 A sore throat is characterized by pain, a scratchy sensation, hoaseness or burning when you swallow. The most common cause of throat pain is an acute throat infection which is caused by a virus or bacteria. These acute infections usually do not turn into recurrent throat infections and most resolve in a few days without treatment. Persistent sore throat however can result from various conditions such as allergies, post nasal drip, tonsillitis, environmental pollution, smoking etc. Reasons for a sore throat are easily diagnosed and treated but see a doctor if you experience severe pain that impairs eating or talking, fever or intense pain on one side of your throat. Treatment varies depending on the cause. If the sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection, you may be prescribed medicines. If it is caused by something other than bacterial infection, the ENT doctor determines the treatment action based on the underlying condition.