Throat Facts
We use our throat every day—for speaking, swallowing, breathing, and more—yet most of us don’t think much about it until something goes wrong. A sore throat is one of the most common complaints in both children and adults. While often caused by something as simple as a cold, it can still be surprisingly uncomfortable.
In this article, Marlon Maducdoc MD, an Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist) with PIH Health, walks through the basic anatomy of the throat, how it functions, and when a sore throat might need medical attention.
What Is the Throat?
The throat is a muscular tube that serves as a passageway for air, food, and liquids. It also plays a key role in producing speech. Several important structures work together in this region:
- Voice Box (Larynx): Contains the vocal cords and is essential for breathing and speaking. It also serves as the gateway to the windpipe (trachea).
- Epiglottis: A flap of tissue located above the larynx. It works with the vocal cords to direct food into the esophagus and away from the airway.
- Tonsils and Adenoids: Made of lymphatic tissue and located at the back and sides of the throat. They help fight infections during childhood but have limited function in adults.
Taking Care of Your Throat
Keeping your throat healthy starts with good habits:
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
- Avoid irritants such as smoke, allergens, and strong chemicals
- Prevent infections by practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with those who are sick
Common Causes and Treatments for a Sore Throat
The most common cause of a sore throat is a virus, such as the common cold. These usually resolve on their own within a week. Antibiotics are not effective for viral infections, but simple remedies like gargling with warm salt water, sipping tea with honey, or using throat lozenges can provide relief.
Bacterial Infections (Strep Throat)
Strep throat is a more serious bacterial infection that can cause significant throat pain, especially when swallowing. Symptoms may include fever, red or swollen tonsils with white patches, difficulty swallowing, and tender lymph nodes. If you suspect strep throat, it's important to visit a healthcare provider for testing and antibiotic treatment.
When to Seek Medical Care
See a healthcare provider if you experience:
- Fever
- Swollen or tender lymph nodes
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
To find the nearest PIH Health urgent care location and wait times, visit PIHHealth.org/FindUCC.
If you have a recurring or persistent sore throat—possibly related to allergies or environmental triggers—your primary care provider may recommend a referral to see Dr. Maducdoc for further evaluation.
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
