A sore throat is one of those uncomfortable symptoms that can make swallowing, eating, and even talking feel like a chore. In most cases, sore throats are mild and short-lived, usually caused by conditions like colds, allergies, or a mild viral infection. But when your throat remains sore for more than a week or is severe, it’s natural to wonder if something more serious is going on. Understanding when a sore throat is harmless ...