Cold and sore throat: what should you know?

A cold can cause throat soreness through inflammation, post-nasal mucus and coughing. Influenza and COVID-19 may also cause throat symptoms, often with stronger general illness. Tonsillitis or strep throat may produce marked pain when swallowing, swollen tonsils or fever. Allergic rhinitis and acid reflux can irritate the throat without a typical cold. Glandular fever is another possibility when prolonged throat pain comes with pronounced tiredness or swollen glands. These conditions overlap, so symptoms should be considered together.

Drink regularly, choose soothing warm or cool fluids, and rest your voice. Gargling with warm salty water may help some adults and older children who can gargle safely. Avoid smoke and share no cups or cutlery while unwell. A pharmacist can advise on suitable pain relief; check labels carefully and ask before combining products.

Seek emergency help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, severe swelling, confusion or a rapidly worsening illness. Arrange prompt medical advice for dehydration, a severe one-sided throat pain, a muffled voice, a rash, persistent high fever, or symptoms that are not improving. Testing may be considered when strep throat, influenza or COVID-19 is suspected.

Ask whether your throat needs examination or testing, which pain relief is appropriate, and how to recognise dehydration or airway swelling. Mention fever, cough, exposure to infections, reflux symptoms and how swallowing has changed.