Hoarseness and Sore Throat: Causes, Conditions & When to See a Doctor

Viral pharyngitis is throat inflammation caused by a viral infection, most commonly rhinovirus or adenovirus. It is the most frequent cause of sore throat and resolves without antibiotics.

Acute laryngitis is sudden inflammation of the larynx typically caused by viral upper respiratory infections. The hallmark is hoarseness or voice loss, usually lasting less than 3 weeks.