How to soothe a sore throat

A sore throat is irritation or pain in the throat and may come with dryness, hoarseness, cough or discomfort when swallowing. A common cold, influenza, COVID-19, allergic rhinitis or acid reflux can irritate the throat. Tonsillitis and strep throat are other possible causes; the pattern of fever, swollen glands, cough and visible tonsil changes helps guide assessment.

A sore throat does not by itself identify one infection. Cough and runny nose often point towards a viral illness, while marked throat pain without cough may need a clinician to consider strep throat.

Sip water or another suitable drink regularly. Warm broth or tea can feel soothing, while cool fluids or ice lollies may ease soreness for some people. Rest your voice, avoid smoke and keep the air comfortably humidified. Gargling warm salty water may help adults who can gargle safely; do not swallow it. Choose soft foods if swallowing is uncomfortable.

A pharmacist can advise on pain relief that fits your age, health and regular medicines. Antibiotics do not help viral causes, so do not use leftover treatment or someone else’s prescription.

Arrange medical advice if the sore throat is severe, keeps returning, lasts longer than expected, or comes with high fever, swollen neck glands, a rash or marked tiredness. Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow fluids, drooling, a muffled voice, rapidly worsening swelling or dehydration. These signs can require prompt examination.

Ask whether your symptoms fit a viral illness, allergy, reflux or a bacterial infection, whether testing is useful, and which pain-relief option is suitable for you.