Dry, itchy sore throat: what to know

A Common Cold, Influenza or COVID-19 can cause throat soreness with cough, tiredness, fever or other respiratory symptoms. Strep Throat and Tonsillitis may cause more marked pain when swallowing, swollen neck glands or visible changes around the tonsils. Acid Reflux can irritate the throat, especially with a sour taste, hoarseness or symptoms after meals or when lying down. Glandular Fever can cause pronounced fatigue and swollen glands. These patterns overlap, so symptoms alone cannot confirm a diagnosis.

Drink fluids in small, regular amounts and select soft foods if swallowing is uncomfortable. Avoid smoking and alcohol, which can further irritate the lining. Rest your voice and use warm drinks if soothing. If reflux seems involved, avoid lying down soon after eating and notice whether particular meals trigger symptoms. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on suitable pain relief after checking your age, pregnancy status, allergies and other medicines.

Seek urgent care for difficulty breathing, drooling, inability to swallow fluids, a muffled voice, severe one-sided swelling, confusion or rapidly worsening illness. Arrange medical advice for a severe sore throat, persistent fever, dehydration, a spreading rash, or symptoms that do not start improving. Testing may be needed when a bacterial infection or respiratory infection is possible.

Ask whether your symptoms fit a cold, Influenza, COVID-19, reflux or a throat infection; whether testing is appropriate; and what treatment is safe with your existing medicines. Mention exposure to illness, fever, cough, reflux symptoms, swollen glands and any difficulty swallowing.