What Causes Throat Inflammation?

Throat inflammation may be caused by conditions such as the common cold, allergies, or chronic tonsillitis.

1. Common Cold

Throat inflammation may result from reduced immune resistance, allowing bacterial or viral invasion. Patients may experience symptoms including fatigue, fever, and coughing.

2. Allergies

Allergic reactions may also cause throat inflammation. For instance, individuals with allergic constitutions who frequently encounter common allergens—such as animal dander, dust, pollen, or willow catkins—or who consume allergenic foods—such as durian, mango, or shrimp—may develop symptoms including sneezing, rhinorrhea (runny nose), and nasal congestion.

3. Chronic Tonsillitis

Chronic tonsillitis can likewise lead to throat inflammation, typically triggered by bacterial or viral infections—for example, *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, hemolytic streptococci, adenovirus, or herpes simplex virus. Clinical manifestations may include sore throat, dryness of the pharynx, a foreign-body sensation in the throat, cough, or halitosis. In severe cases, patients may experience dyspnea (difficulty breathing) or dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).