Health Tip: Warning Signs of a Serious Sore Throat

(HealthDay News) — 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.