What should you know about consistent sore throat?

A common cold, influenza, COVID-19, tonsillitis, strep throat or glandular fever can inflame the throat. Allergic rhinitis may cause mucus to drain backwards and irritate it. Acid reflux can reach the throat and cause soreness, throat clearing or a hoarse voice, sometimes without obvious heartburn. The pattern matters: fever and swollen glands suggest infection, while cough, congestion or exposure to an irritant may point elsewhere.

Drink fluids, choose soft foods if swallowing hurts, and avoid smoke and strong fumes. Rest your voice and consider warm drinks or salt-water gargles if these feel soothing. A pharmacist can advise about pain relief that is appropriate for you. Do not use leftover antibiotics; they do not treat every sore throat and can delay the right assessment. Record fever, cough, rash, reflux symptoms and contact with anyone unwell.

Book a medical appointment when throat pain persists, keeps returning, or is accompanied by fever, swollen neck glands, a rash, marked tiredness or white patches. Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, severe one-sided swelling or signs of dehydration. Testing may be considered when the examination suggests strep throat or another infection.

Ask whether you need a throat examination or swab, which symptoms would suggest reflux or allergy, and what pain relief is safe with your medical history. Tell the clinician how long the problem has lasted and whether it is worse at night.