Home Remedies for Sore Throat Sore throat is a microbial infection, which occurs due to the infection caused by certain fungi, virus or streptococcal bacteria. Sore throat occurs due to strained vocal cords, cold or strep throat. Environmental factors also play a certain role in the occurrence of this painful condition. It is characterized by hoarse, sick or scratchy throat, throat inflammation and difficulty in speaking. Some of the major symptoms of sore throat include the following: Throat Pain Throat