Congestion and sore throat: what to know

A blocked or runny nose can make you breathe through your mouth, drying and irritating the throat. Mucus draining backwards can also cause a scratchy feeling or repeated throat clearing. A common cold may bring congestion, throat discomfort, cough and tiredness. Allergic rhinitis more often causes sneezing, itching and watery discharge without a fever. Tonsillitis or strep throat can cause marked throat pain and difficulty swallowing; these conditions are diagnosed from the overall pattern and examination, not from congestion alone.

Acid reflux can irritate the throat, particularly after meals or when lying down, while influenza and COVID-19 can cause broader respiratory symptoms. Glandular fever is another possibility when severe tiredness and swollen glands accompany the sore throat.

Rest, drink regularly and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Warm fluids may soothe the throat; cool drinks or ice lollies may feel better for some people. Saline nasal spray or a gentle saline rinse can loosen mucus. Avoid smoke and other throat irritants, and wash your hands before preparing food or touching your face. A pharmacist can help you choose a suitable pain reliever or nasal treatment, taking your age, pregnancy status and other medicines into account. Do not share antibiotics or use someone else’s prescription.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms are worsening, persist beyond the expected course of a minor illness, or make eating and drinking difficult. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, severe one-sided throat swelling, confusion, fainting or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. A high or persistent fever, a new rash, or significant weakness also deserves prompt assessment. If you may have COVID-19 or influenza, follow current local advice about testing and reducing contact with vulnerable people.

Ask whether your throat and nasal symptoms fit a viral illness, allergy or another cause; whether an examination or test is needed; which medicines are safe with your conditions; and what change should prompt a review.