What should you know about congestion, runny nose and sore throat?

A common cold can inflame the nose and throat, causing blocked breathing, nasal discharge and soreness. Allergic rhinitis may cause congestion and a clear runny nose, with sneezing or itchy eyes. Influenza and COVID-19 can also affect the upper airways, while tonsillitis or strep throat can make swallowing painful. Acid reflux can irritate the throat without causing a typical cold pattern. Glandular fever is another possible cause when marked tiredness and swollen neck glands accompany throat pain.

Rest, drink fluids and choose warm or cool drinks according to what feels soothing. Saline nasal spray or a gentle salt-water rinse may ease nasal blockage. Honey in a warm drink can soothe an adult or a child over one year. Avoid smoke and other airway irritants. A pharmacist can discuss suitable pain relief or a short-term nasal treatment, taking account of pregnancy, age, blood pressure and other medicines. Do not share antibiotics or use leftover medicine.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow fluids, drooling, blue lips, severe dehydration, confusion or rapidly worsening symptoms. Arrange a clinical review if symptoms are severe, persist beyond the expected course, return after improving, or include a high fever, one-sided throat swelling, chest pain or a weakened immune system. A clinician can examine your throat and nose and decide whether testing is appropriate.

Could this pattern fit a cold, allergy or another throat infection? Do I need a throat or respiratory test? Which medicines are safe with my existing conditions? What change would mean I should seek urgent help?