A throat examination is a medical procedure where a healthcare professional checks the throat for signs of illness or infection. This typically involves using a light source to look at the tonsils, uvula, and pharynx. The doctor may also ask the patient to say "ah" to observe the movement of the throat structures. During the examination, the doctor may check for redness, swelling, or any unusual growths. They might also feel the neck for swollen lymph nodes that could indicate an infection. This simple procedure helps diagnose conditions like strep throat or tonsillitis.