One of the commonest causes of illness, a sore throat often clears up on its own, but knowing what's causing it is important to treat it properly. Viral, bacterial, or caused by allergic elements - these kinds of sore throats have different characteristics that need different responses.

Sore throats have several origins, including infection and environmental factors. Some common causes include:

Viral infections: Viruses cause 90% of sore throat cases. Sore throats may result due to flu or common cold as well as those from chickenpox and measles that can all cause irritation.

Bacterial Infections: Streptococcus bacteria, the most common cause of strep throat, is the most common bacterial source. Strep throat is contagious and can lead to complications if untreated.

Allergies: Pollen, pet dander, and mold can trigger throat irritation, often accompanied by postnasal drip, sneezing, and watery eyes.

Environmental Factors: Dry air, pollution, and smoke can dry out or irritate the throat, creating a scratchy sensation.

Other Causes: GERD, vocal strain, even tumors may be responsible for chronic sore throats.

How to Distinguish Between Viral, Bacterial, and Allergic Sore Throats

Determining your cause of sore throat requires analysis of symptoms that accompany it, how long the sore throat lasts, and how bad the sore throat is.

Viral Sore Throats

The viruses that cause a sore throat are usually similar to a cold in their symptoms and tend to be milder than bacterial infections.

Symptoms of Viral Sore Throat

- Red, swollen throat without white patches

- Persistent cough

- Runny nose and nasal congestion

- Fever, usually mild

Duration: Viral infections last for 7–10 days without antibiotics.

Treatment: Home remedies, such as warm fluids, saltwater gargling, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate it.

Also Read: Flu Season Grips 40 States In US, CDC Reports Alarming Numbers

Bacterial Sore Throats

Bacterial sore throats, mainly strep throat, are more severe and require prompt medical attention to prevent complications.

Symptoms of Bacterial Sore Throat

- Red and swollen tonsils with white patches or streaks of pus

- High fever

- Absence of a cough

- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain (especially in children)

- Small red spots on the roof of the mouth

Diagnosis: Rapid strep tests or throat cultures confirm the presence of bacteria.

Treatment: Antibiotics are necessary to eliminate the infection. Without treatment, complications like rheumatic fever or abscesses can develop.

Sore Throats Caused by Allergies

Throat irritation is caused by postnasal drip. Allergies create a buildup and drip of mucus down the back of the throat.

Allergic Sore Throat Symptoms

- Irritation of the throat and ears

- Runny eyes, sneezing, and nasal congestion

- These symptoms are usually relieved by antihistamines or removal from the source of the allergen

Duration: Allergic sore throats are sustained for as long as the allergens are exposed.

When to Seek Medical Care?

A sore throat should be taken to a doctor if:

- The condition lasts more than a week.

- There is shortness of breath or swallowing becomes painful.

- Swelling is too pronounced or the pain in the throat is extreme.

- High fever, rash, or joint pain occur along with the sore throat.

- A child shows signs of dehydration or refuses fluids due to throat pain.

Early diagnosis can prevent complications and speed recovery.

Effective Treatment for Sore Throats

Home Remedies for Viral and Allergy-Related Sore Throats

Viral infections and allergies often respond well to non-invasive treatments:

• Drink warm teas, broths, or water to soothe the throat.
• Gargling with warm, salty water can reduce inflammation.
• These help soothe an irritated throat and can alleviate coughing.

Let your body rest sufficiently. Humidifying dry air will help keep the throat moist, especially when winter is on its way.

Why Not All Sore Throats Require Antibiotics?

Bacterial infections require antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin. Finish the treatment completely to avoid reoccurrence or resistance.

How to Keep Sore Throats at Bay When Winter Is Near

Prevention is better than cure, and simple lifestyle changes can reduce your risk:

• Wash your hands frequently to avoid infections.
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
• Use air purifiers to minimize exposure to irritants.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to boost immunity.

Understanding the cause of your sore throat—whether viral, bacterial, or allergic—is key to effective treatment and recovery. While many sore throats resolve on their own, seeking timely medical advice for persistent or severe symptoms can prevent complications. Prioritize self-care, and don’t hesitate to consult a doctor when needed. Remember, your throat’s health is a vital part of your overall well-being.

A 27-year-old woman in US' state of Arizona suffered a cardiac arrest after using kratom, an over-the-counter supplement she purchased at a local gas station.

Amanda Goodsell, who had never taken kratom before, suffered a cardiac arrest after nearly a week of using the supplement and is now on life support, according to her family.

The mother of 3½-year-old twins tried the kratom gummies at the suggestion of her husband, Mike Goodsell, while seeking relief from persistent leg pain.

“Everybody knew what Kratom was. So I was like, well, okay, well, here, just take this. You could just buy it at the gas station. It’s not going to hurt you,” Mike Goodsell was quoted as saying to the media.

Nearly a week later, Mike found his wife unresponsive in their bed, and rushed her to the hospital, where she was placed on life support

“She like, was like red and her lips were blue, and she was foaming. So I like jumped out of bed. I grabbed her, and then (I) was trying to wake her up,” he said.

“They had to have her on a ventilator to help her breathe. And then they had to put her on a bunch of medications because her heart percentage was at 15%,” Mike added.

After spending two weeks in the hospital, Amanda Goodsell's condition began to improve. Although she has shown significant improvement, as per the doctors she will need a defibrillator and heart medication for the rest of her life.

Also read: Legionnaires' Disease Claims 5th Life In New York City: Health Officials

What Is Kratom?

Kratom is a plant-based substance derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally used in countries such as Thailand and Malaysia for pain relief and increased energy, it has gained popularity in the US as an over-the-counter supplement.

Kratom is sold in multiple forms, including powders, capsules, teas, drinks and gummies.

Although it remains legal in many parts of the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified kratom as a "drug of concern" and has not approved it for any medical use.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Survey on Drug Use and Health, an estimated 1.7 million Americans aged 12 and older used kratom in 2021.

The substance, sometimes referred to as "gas-station heroin," is banned in at least eight US states—Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Indiana, Louisiana, Tennessee, Vermont and Wisconsin. Several other states, including Iowa and Idaho, are considering restrictions or outright bans.

Why Does The FDA Warn Against Kratom?

Read More: Hantavirus Claims 3 Lives In Venezuela: What The Rat-borne Virus Does To The Brain

According to a University of Virginia study, there were 43 hospitalizations linked solely to kratom in 2015. By 2025, that number had risen to 538. Researchers said the increase coincided with the emergence of highly concentrated synthetic products, including 7-OH.

The FDA has stated that kratom should not be used as a dietary supplement.

"Kratom is not appropriate for use as a dietary supplement. FDA has concluded from available information, including scientific data, that kratom is a new dietary ingredient for which there is inadequate information to provide reasonable assurance that such ingredient does not present a significant or unreasonable risk of illness or injury."

The agency has warned consumers not to use kratom because of the risk of serious adverse events, including liver toxicity, seizures and substance use disorder (SUD).

The FDA also notes that, in rare cases, deaths have been associated with kratom use, although these cases usually involved other drugs and the contribution of kratom remains unclear.

The agency is also aware of cases involving neonatal abstinence syndrome, in which newborns experienced withdrawal symptoms such as jitteriness, irritability and muscle stiffness following prolonged exposure to kratom during pregnancy.

When it comes to climate change, we often visualise melting glaciers, rising sea levels, raging wildfires, or record-breaking heatwaves. But scientists are increasingly warning that climate change could also be silently affecting one of the body's most vital organs: the brain.

From rising mercury levels and worsening air pollution to floods, wildfires, and hurricanes, climate-related catastrophes are exposing millions of people across the world to conditions that could increase the risk of neurological disorders.

On World Brain Day, let's look at why brain health is another reason to take climate change seriously.

Effect Of Heatwaves On Brain Health

This can lead to poor concentration, slower reflexes, memory decline, headaches, confusion, and poor decision-making.

Older adults are particularly vulnerable because the brain's ability to regulate body temperature declines with age.

People living with neurological disorders like dementia, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, or epilepsy may also find that their symptoms worsen during periods of intense heat.

Also read: Will Waterborne Diseases Rise In The Future? New Study Says Climate Change Could Be A Major Driver

Effect Of Air Pollution On Brain Health

Climate change is worsening air pollution in many parts of the world by increasing wildfire smoke, ground-level ozone, and fine particulate matter.

These tiny pollutants, especially PM2.5, are small enough to enter the bloodstream and may even reach the brain. Studies have linked long-term exposure to air pollution with:

• Faster cognitive decline
• Memory impairment
• Increased risk of dementia
• Higher risk of stroke
• Parkinson's disease
• Poor brain development in children

Scientists believe air pollution may trigger chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can damage brain cells over time.

Also read: Europe Heatwave Causes 10,000 Excess Deaths; England, Wales Record 2,700 More Fatalities

Effects Of Wildfires On Brain Health

While smoke affects the lungs, it can also impact the brain.

Wildfire smoke contains fine particles and toxic chemicals that have been associated with headaches, reduced attention, poorer cognitive performance, and increased emergency visits for neurological conditions.

People with existing neurological diseases may experience worsening symptoms during periods of heavy smoke exposure.

Also read: Dangerous Heat Dome To Grip Eastern US, Canada, Putting Over 220 Million Lives At Risk: How To Stay Safe

Extreme Weather Can Accelerate Brain Ageing

Climate change is also increasing the frequency and intensity of floods, hurricanes, droughts, and other natural disasters. Beyond physical injuries, these disasters can leave lasting effects on the brain and mental health. People affected by climate disasters often experience:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Sleep disturbances
• Chronic stress

Children, older adults, and disaster survivors are among the groups most vulnerable to these long-term psychological effects.

How To Protect Your Brain?

While tackling climate change is a long-term strategic plan, individuals can maintain few self-care habits to reduce the risks. Experts recommend:

• Staying hydrated during heatwaves
• Avoiding outdoor activity during peak afternoon heat
• Monitoring local air quality before going outside
• Wearing a well-fitting mask during heavy wildfire smoke or severe pollution
• Keeping homes cool whenever possible

Brain health is often associated with old age, but according to neurologists, the foundation for healthy cognitive function is laid much earlier.

On World Brain Day, they warned that the 30s and 40s are a crucial period to protect the brain, as lifestyle habits and underlying health conditions can quietly affect memory, concentration, and overall cognitive health.

Brain Ages Alongside the Heart

Speaking to HealthandMe, Dr. Gurucharan Adoor, Neurologist, Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, said brain health is closely linked to cardiovascular health. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and elevated blood sugar can silently damage the brain years before noticeable symptoms appear.

His advice? Make preventive health checks a routine by monitoring blood pressure, blood glucose or HbA1c, cholesterol, weight, and waist circumference—especially for people with a family history of diabetes, stroke, or early heart disease.

Brain Fog A Warning Signal

Also read: Neurological Disorders Emerging As India's Next Major Public Health Challenge, Say Experts

Dr. Adoor said sleep is often the first thing people sacrifice during their busiest years, but the brain pays the price.

Irregular sleep schedules, untreated sleep apnea, and repeated nights of poor-quality sleep can lead to mental fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and persistent brain fog. If brain fog continues, he said, it should not be ignored, as it may indicate an underlying health issue that requires attention.

Dr. Bhushan Joshi, Consultant Neurologist, Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, Pune, told HealthandMe that he is "seeing more professionals in their 30s and 40s complaining of brain fog than ever before". According to him, hormonal changes and chronic inflammation are among the common but often overlooked causes.

Hormonal Changes Can Affect Cognitive Function

Dr. Joshi noted that hormonal fluctuations can significantly influence brain function. Women entering perimenopause may experience difficulty concentrating, while others may notice "word retrieval and short-term memory due to changing estrogen levels that influence brain function."

He added that it is not limited to women. Men also undergo age-related hormonal changes that can affect energy levels and cognitive performance. While these changes are often temporary, they can still be distressing.

Read More: Aspartame, Saccharin, Erythritol Linked To Faster Brain Ageing: Study

Chronic Inflammation May Reduce Mental Clarity

Dr. Joshi explained that chronic low-grade inflammation can also contribute to brain fog. Conditions such as obesity, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and persistent infections can trigger inflammatory responses that interfere with the brain's ability to process information efficiently. In some people, inflammation has been linked to reduced attention, poor memory, and diminished mental clarity.

Small Lifestyle Changes Key

The good news: Simple daily habits can support long-term brain health. Regular physical activity—whether it's walking, cycling, dancing, or strength training several times a week—improves blood flow to the brain, boosts mood, and supports healthy ageing.

Dr. Adoor also recommends limiting unnecessary screen time, taking regular breaks from phones and digital devices, and focusing on one task at a time to reduce mental overload.

When Should You See A Doctor?

Occasionally feeling mentally sluggish is common, but worsening memory problems or cognitive changes that begin interfering with work or daily life should not be ignored, Dr. Joshi said.

He added that these symptoms may stem from treatable conditions such as thyroid disorders, vitamin deficiencies, anxiety, or depression, making timely medical evaluation important.