Frendoc - Providing Patient Care

Coughs & Colds

• Coughs & Colds •
• Flu •
• Sore Throats •
• Diarrhoea & Vomiting •
• Hayfever •
• Asthma

Sore throat (pharyngitis)

Pharyngitis is usually caused by a virus infection. Soreness in the throat may be the only symptom. In addition, you may also have a hoarse voice, mild cough, fever, headache, feel sick, feel tired, and the glands in your neck may swell. It may be painful to swallow. Symptoms typically get worse over 2-3 days and then gradually go, usually within a week. You may also develop a sore throat if you have a cold or flu-like illness.

Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils at the back of the mouth. Symptoms are similar to a sore throat, but may be more severe. In particular, fever and generally feeling unwell tend to be worse. You may be able to see some pus which looks like white spots on the enlarged red tonsils.

What is the treatment for sore throat and tonsillitis?

Fluids. It is tempting not to drink very much if it is painful to swallow. You may become mildly dehydrated if you don't drink, particularly if you have a fever. Mild dehydration can make headaches and tiredness much worse.

Paracetamol or ibuprofen ease pain, headache, and fever. To keep symptoms to a minimum it is best to take a dose at regular intervals as recommended on the packet of medication.

Aspirin gargles may ease the soreness. Dissolve some soluble aspirin in water and gargle for 3-4 minutes. You can do this 3-4 times a day. Spit out the aspirin after gargling. (Note: you should not give aspirin to children under 16.)

Other gargles, lozenges, and sprays that you can buy at pharmacies may help to soothe a sore throat.

Do I need an antibiotic?

Usually not. Most throat and tonsil infections are caused by viruses. Antibiotics kill bacteria, but do not kill viruses. Your immune system usually clears these infections within a few days whether caused by viruses or bacteria. Also, antibiotics can sometimes cause side-effects such as diarrhoea, rash, and stomach upsets. So, they are not commonly prescribed for a sore throat.
An antibiotic may be advised if the infection is severe, if it is not easing after a few days, or if your immune system is not working properly (for example, if you have had your spleen removed or if you are taking chemotherapy, etc).
Occasionally a throat or tonsil infection is due to an uncommon cause, such as glandular fever. See a doctor if symptoms are severe, or if they do not ease within 3-4 days.