What should you know about frequent sore throat?

Common cold, influenza and COVID-19 can inflame the throat alongside cough, congestion, fever or body aches. Strep throat may cause a prominent sore throat with fever and swollen neck glands, while tonsillitis can cause enlarged, painful tonsils and difficulty swallowing. Glandular fever may bring prolonged throat pain with marked tiredness and swollen glands. Allergic rhinitis can irritate the throat through drainage from the nose. Acid reflux may cause burning, hoarseness, throat clearing or symptoms that are worse after meals or when lying down. These patterns are clues rather than a diagnosis.

Rest your voice, drink fluids and choose soothing foods or drinks that you tolerate. Avoid smoke and other throat irritants. Handwashing and not sharing cups can reduce spread when infection is possible. A pharmacist can advise on suitable pain relief, taking account of your age, pregnancy, allergies and other medicines. Arrange a review if episodes recur, last longer than expected, affect eating or drinking, or keep returning without a clear illness.

Seek emergency care for trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, rapidly increasing neck or throat swelling, a muffled voice, severe dehydration or confusion. Get prompt assessment for a severe one-sided throat pain, difficulty opening the mouth, persistent high fever, blood in saliva or symptoms that are worsening quickly.

Could my episodes fit reflux, allergy, tonsillitis or an infection? Do I need a throat test? Which pain relief is safe for me? What pattern should prompt an urgent appointment?