How is sore throat treated?

Throat pain often accompanies a viral illness such as Influenza or Laryngitis. Swollen tonsils, fever and tender neck glands can occur with Tonsillitis or Strep Throat, but symptoms alone cannot confirm the cause. A rash with fever may require assessment for Scarlet Fever, and prolonged tiredness with swollen glands can occur with Glandular Fever.

Drink regularly, choose soft foods, rest your voice and avoid smoke. Warm or cool drinks may soothe the throat; gargling with salt water can help some adults who can gargle safely. A pharmacist can advise on suitable pain relief and lozenges, taking account of age, pregnancy, allergies and other medicines. Do not start leftover antibiotics: Antibiotic Treatment is useful only when a clinician considers a bacterial cause and prescribes it.

Arrange medical advice if pain is severe, keeps worsening, lasts beyond the expected illness, or returns often. Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow fluids, drooling, a muffled voice, severe one-sided swelling or signs of dehydration. A child who is unusually sleepy or struggling to drink also needs prompt assessment.

Do my examination findings suggest a viral illness, Strep Throat or Tonsillitis? Do I need a throat test? Which pain relief is safe with my health conditions?