Runny nose, sore throat and headache

A Common Cold can irritate the throat and cause nasal drainage, congestion, and a pressure-like headache. Influenza and COVID-19 may also cause this combination, often with fever, tiredness, cough, or body aches. Allergic Rhinitis can create throat irritation from drainage and a pressure sensation around the nose, while Sinusitis may involve facial tenderness or reduced smell. Strep Throat and Tonsillitis more often centre on throat pain and swallowing difficulty; a runny nose can make those causes less typical. Acid Reflux may irritate the throat without causing a viral illness, and Glandular Fever can cause marked fatigue and swollen glands. The pattern needs clinical context.

Rest, drink fluids, and use warm drinks or saline nasal spray for comfort. Gargling with appropriately prepared warm salt water may soothe an adult throat. Avoid smoke and strong fragrances, and use a clean tissue when coughing or blowing your nose. A pharmacist can advise on pain relief or nasal treatment after checking allergies, pregnancy, kidney or liver disease, stomach problems, and regular medicines. Do not combine products until you have checked their ingredients. Stay home and follow local respiratory guidance while you feel acutely infectious.

Get urgent help for trouble breathing, inability to swallow fluids, drooling, severe dehydration, confusion, chest pain, a stiff neck, or a sudden severe headache. Arrange prompt assessment for severe one-sided throat pain, a muffled voice, facial swelling, persistent facial pain, worsening fever, or symptoms that are not improving. Testing may be appropriate when COVID-19 or Influenza is possible, based on current local advice and your risk factors.

Do my symptoms fit a cold, allergy, or another throat condition? Do I need an examination or testing? Which pain or nasal treatment is suitable with my health history?