Chills and sore throat

A Common Cold or Influenza can cause chills, throat irritation, cough, blocked nose, and tiredness. COVID-19 may also cause sore throat with fever or other respiratory symptoms. Strep Throat and Tonsillitis can make swallowing painful and may cause swollen neck glands. Glandular Fever may bring marked fatigue and swollen glands. Allergic Rhinitis can irritate the throat through post-nasal drip, while Acid Reflux may cause a burning throat or hoarse voice without an infection.

Symptoms overlap, so appearance alone cannot tell which cause is present. Record fever, cough, nasal symptoms, rash, swollen glands, exposure to illness, and whether pain is stronger on one side.

Rest, drink fluids regularly, and choose cool or warm drinks according to what feels soothing. Soft foods can be easier to swallow. Gargling with warm salt water may soothe an irritated throat if you can gargle safely. Avoid smoking and share neither cups nor utensils while you are unwell. Use only medicines suitable for you and follow the label or a clinician's advice.

Arrange a medical review when symptoms are severe, persist, keep returning, or make eating and drinking difficult. Testing may be considered when a bacterial throat infection is possible.

Seek emergency help if you cannot breathe, cannot swallow saliva, are drooling, develop rapidly increasing throat or neck swelling, become confused, or feel faint. Urgent review is also needed for dehydration, a muffled voice with severe throat pain, or symptoms that worsen quickly.

Ask whether your symptoms fit a viral illness, Strep Throat, Tonsillitis, or another cause, and whether testing is useful. Tell the clinician about fever, cough, rash, swollen glands, reflux, allergies, medicines, and contact with someone who was ill.