Sore throat and cough remedies: what to know

A Common Cold, Influenza or COVID-19 may improve with supportive care, while Strep Throat or Tonsillitis may need examination and a treatment decision. Allergic Rhinitis can require control of nasal symptoms, and Acid Reflux may need changes around meals and bedtime. A cough may be dry, mucus-producing or triggered by drainage, so one product may not suit every pattern. Glandular Fever is another cause of prolonged throat symptoms and fatigue.

Drink water often and try warm drinks, soft foods or ice chips for comfort. Honey can soothe cough for adults and children over one year. Gargling with warm salt water may help adults, but do not swallow it. Rest your voice and avoid tobacco smoke, strong fragrances and very dry air. Ask a pharmacist about an appropriate pain reliever or cough medicine; check labels to avoid doubling ingredients, and mention pregnancy, allergies, chronic illness and regular medicines. Do not use leftover antibiotics.

Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, chest pain, severe dehydration, drooling, inability to swallow or rapidly worsening swelling. Arrange a medical review when symptoms are severe, do not start improving, repeatedly return or interfere with drinking or sleep. A clinician can decide whether the cause needs a test or prescription treatment rather than more self-care.

Which remedy fits my cough type? Could reflux or allergy be involved? Do any of my current medicines contain the same pain-relief ingredient? What symptoms mean I should stop self-treatment?