Sore throat and cough without fever: what to know

Some viral illnesses, including Common Cold and COVID-19, may begin without fever or never cause one. Allergic Rhinitis can lead to nasal drainage that repeatedly irritates the throat. Acid Reflux may cause a dry cough, hoarseness or a sore throat that is worse after meals or when lying down. Dry air, smoke and voice strain can also irritate the throat. Tonsillitis or Strep Throat can present with throat pain, although cough is less typical with strep. Glandular Fever may cause prolonged throat symptoms and tiredness.

Sip water or warm drinks, rest your voice and avoid smoking or smoky rooms. Honey may soothe cough in people over one year. Saline nasal rinsing can help when nasal drainage is present, provided the water is prepared safely. A pharmacist can advise on pain relief or a cough treatment after checking your age, health conditions and medicines. If reflux seems possible, avoid lying down soon after eating and notice whether particular foods trigger symptoms.

Get urgent help if breathing becomes difficult, you cannot swallow fluids, saliva is pooling, you develop chest pain, or you become unusually drowsy or confused. Book an assessment if symptoms are severe, persistent, recurrent or worsening, even without fever. Seek advice sooner if you are pregnant, immunocompromised or caring for a young child. A clinician can examine the throat and chest and decide whether testing is needed.

Could post-nasal drainage or reflux explain my symptoms? Would a throat or viral test change treatment? Which over-the-counter products fit my medicines? How long should I monitor this before returning?