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Sore Throat

A sore throat, or pharyngitis, often signals an underlying bacterial or viral infection, such as influenza or the common cold, or it may result from environmental irritants. This condition can lead to discomfort, pain, or difficulty swallowing.

Our expert team is committed to providing accurate diagnoses and effective treatments for sore throats, ensuring you recover swiftly and comfortably.

Woman Suffering From Sore Throat
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Symptoms Associated With A Sore Throat

A sore throat may be accompanied by swollen or tender lymph nodes in the neck. Other common symptoms that may occur, especially if the sore throat is caused by a bacterial or viral infection, include:

  • A cough.
  • A headache.
  • A fever of 38°C or higher.
  • A runny nose (rhinitis) or nasal congestion.
  • General body aches, muscle soreness, or fatigue.

Sore Throat With Serious Causes

If your sore throat is accompanied by a fever, it is important to investigate the cause, as it may indicate a more serious underlying condition. These can include:

  • Strep Throat: A bacterial infection.
  • Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx (voice box).
  • Glandular Fever: Often accompanied by swollen glands in the neck.
  • Epiglottitis: Inflammation of the tissue at the back of the throat, which can cause difficulty breathing.
  • Abscess: Often referred to as quinsy, this is a painful collection of pus between the tonsil and the wall of the throat, usually resulting from tonsillitis.
doctor
Serious doctor with arms crossed

Standard Diagnosis

Our experienced healthcare professionals will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of your sore throat.

This process may involve discussing your medical history, including your symptoms, their duration, and any recent exposure to illnesses. A physical examination will be performed to check for signs of infection, inflammation, or other conditions.

If necessary, we may also conduct tests such as a throat swab or blood test to identify bacterial infections or other underlying issues.

Typical Treatment Options

Treatment for a sore throat varies based on its underlying cause. For viral infections, which typically resolve on their own, we offer guidance on symptom management, including staying hydrated, getting ample rest, and using over-the-counter pain relievers.

If a bacterial infection such as strep throat is diagnosed, we will prescribe antibiotics to target and eliminate the bacteria. For sore throats caused by allergies, we can recommend treatments to help manage your allergies and alleviate throat irritation.

If environmental factors are contributing to your symptoms, we will suggest ways to improve indoor air quality and avoid potential irritants. In cases of acid reflux (GERD), we provide advice on lifestyle changes and medications to help manage and reduce reflux symptoms.

Woman doctor pointing
Woman doctor taking notes

Self-Care For A Mild Sore Throat

While waiting for your appointment or if you are dealing with a mild sore throat, consider these self-care tips to ease your discomfort.

Staying hydrated is crucial, drink plenty of fluids to keep your throat moist and help flush out irritants. Gargling with salt water can also soothe your throat and reduce inflammation.

Using a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air can alleviate dryness and irritation. Additionally, try to rest your voice by speaking softly or, if possible, giving it a complete rest to avoid further strain.

Infectious Causes

  • Bacterial Infections: Strep throat, or tonsillitis.
  • Viral Infections: Common cold, flu, or mononucleosis (commonly referred to as mono).
Doctor with stethoscope
woman doctor explaining

Non-Infectious Causes

  • Dry Air: Indoor heating.
  • Injury: Foreign Objects.
  • Strain: Overuse Of Voice.
  • Irritants: Smoke, pollutants.
  • Allergies: Pollen, dust, or pet dander.
  • Other Medical Conditions: HIV/AIDS, or tumours.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Acid reflux.

Statistics​

of people have a sore throat in any 3 month period
0 %
of people visit a doctor for tonsillitis each year
0 %
of All Doctors in the UK are GPs
0 %
GPs per 10000 people in the UK
0

What to do next

It is recommended that you make an appointment to see a doctor if your sore throat is severe, does not go away after a few days, or if you have regularly occurring sore throats or an underlying condition affecting the immune system.

Treatments

We work with experienced consultants & healthcare professionals who have received positive feedback from our patients, and with whom we have established long-term relationships.

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Dr Mohammad

Dr Mohammad Mohseyni

Senior General practitioner

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How to book a private GP appointment?

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You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.

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What are the potential complications that can develop from a sore throat?
Some people are at greater risk of developing complications from a sore throat than others. These include HIV or AIDS infection, leukaemia or bone marrow cancer, asplenia, aplastic anaemia, are receiving chemotherapy treatment, taking immunosuppressants, anti-thyroid medication, or a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD).
My doctor could not find a cause for my sore throat, but it is not going away. What should I do?
If your sore throat persists for more than a few days, it is recommended that you get a second opinion, particularly if you are also experiencing a fever.
What can I do to soothe a sore throat?
In all cases of sore throat, it is recommended that you see a doctor, rather than trying to self-diagnose. Speak to your doctor about methods of treatment that are most appropriate for you.

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