Sore Throat

A sore throat is a painful, dry, or scratchy feeling in the throat. Most sore throats are caused by infections, or by environmental factors like dry air. Although a sore throat can be uncomfortable, it’ll usually go away on its own. Sore throats are very common and usually nothing to worry about. They normally get better within a week. Most are caused by minor illnesses such as colds or flu and can be treated at home.

Sore throats are divided into types, based on the part of the throat they affect: Pharyngitis affects the area right behind the mouth.

Tonsillitis is swelling and redness of the tonsils, the soft tissue in the back of the mouth.

Laryngitis is swelling and redness of the voice box, or larynx.

Symptoms

• swollen tonsils

• enlarged and tender glands in the neck • a painful, tender feeling at the back of the throat

• discomfort when swallowing

Causes of a sore throat

The cause of a sore throat isn’t always obvious. But in most cases it’s a symptom of a viral or bacterial infection.

Common causes

A sore throat is often a symptom of: Colds or Flu – they may also have a blocked or runny nose, a cough, a high temperature (fever), a headache and general aches Llaryngitis – they may also have a hoarse voice, a dry cough and a constant need to clear their throat

Tonsillitis – they may also have red or spotty tonsils, discomfort when swallowing and a fever

Strep Throat (bacterial throat infection) –

they may also have swollen glands in the neck, discomfort when swallowing and tonsillitis Glandular Fever – they may also feel very tired and have a fever and swollen glands in the neck

It may also be caused by something irritating the throat, such as smoke, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (where acid leaks up from the stomach) and allergies.

Less common causes

Less often, a sore throat can be a sign of:

quinsy (a painful collection of pus at the

back of the throat) – the pain may be severe, and they may also have difficulty opening their mouth or difficulty swallowing

epiglottitis (inflammation of the flap of

tissue at the back of the throat) – the pain may be severe, and they may have difficulty breathing and difficulty swallowing

These conditions are more serious and should be seen by a doctor as soon as possible.

When to refer

• Their symptoms are severe

• They have persistent symptoms that haven’t started to improve after a week

• They experience severe sore throats frequently • They have a weak immune system - for example, if they have HIV, are having chemotherapy, or are taking medication that suppresses the immune system

Helping soothe a sore throat

• Recommend ibuprofen or paracetamol – paracetamol is better for children and for people who can’t take ibuprofen (note that children under 16 should never take aspirin) • drink plenty of cool or warm fluids, and avoid very hot drinks • eat cool, soft foods • avoid smoking and smoky places • adults can try gargling with a homemade mouthwash of warm, salty water (not recommended for children) • suck lozenges, hard sweets, ice cubes or ice lollies – but don’t give young children anything small and hard to suck because of the risk of choking • medicated lozenges and sprays • Antibiotics aren’t usually prescribed for a sore throat, even if it’s caused by a bacterial infection

WWho? Sore throats are common. Most people have at least two or three every year. They are more common among children and teenagers

WWhat are the symptoms? a painful, tender feeling at the back of the

throat, discomfort when swallowing

HHow long have they had the symptoms? A clinical diagnosis of the

condition is usually not required, unless the symptoms do not improve after two weeks

AAction already taken? People may have taken painkillers for their

sore throat

MMedication? Always check the label of pain relief or medicated throat

sprays for contraindications