What additional symptom might be present along with the sore throat?

A sore throat can often be accompanied by a cough due to its association with viral or bacterial infections affecting the upper respiratory tract. A cough may act as a natural reflex to clear the throat or airways of mucus, irritants, or pathogens. In illnesses like the common cold, flu, or strep throat, the presence of both symptoms is common.

Infections that cause a sore throat typically prompt inflammation and subsequent irritation, which can lead to increased coughing. Therefore, observing a cough alongside a sore throat can indicate that the underlying condition may be affecting both the throat and the respiratory pathways, further aiding in the clinical assessment of the patient's health status.