| CHORLEY
& SOUTH RIBBLE PRIMARY CARE GROUP
SORE THROAT
A sore throat is a very common ailment
that affects all ages but is more common in children and young adults.
Symptoms of a viral sore throat
can include:
- A worsening soreness in the throat - often
at its worst after 2 to 3 days.
- Swallowing is unpleasant and as the
soreness in the throat worsens, cold symptoms, hoarse voice,
or mild cough may develop.
- The glands in the neck may swell (fighting
off the virus).
- Symptoms get worse for 2 to 3 days then
get better usually within a week.
Symptoms of tonsillitis are similar,
but often worse:
- The raised temperature and general feeling
of being unwell tends to be worse.
- The neck glands tend to be bigger and
more painful.
- Pus can often be seen on the swollen,
red tonsils.
What can I do?
If your doctor has decided not to prescribe antibiotics
it is because you have a viral sore throat and, taking antibiotics
will not help, however, you should:
- Drink plenty of fluid, even if it is a little
painful, it is a good idea. Not drinking, together with a fever
can cause dehydration which can make tiredness and headaches
worse.
- Take regular Paracetamol to ease pain,
headache and bring the temperature down. You can obtain soluble
Paracetamol tablets of, for children use Paracetamol liquid.
- In addition to Paracetamol, adults may
find that gargling with soluble Aspirin (dissolved in water)
for 3 or 4 minutes often eases soreness and pain. This is often
of mostly benefit before meals and at bedtime.
Aspirin however, should not be given
to children under 12 and also not to people taking other painkillers
and medicines for stomach and joint problems.
Your local pharmacist can advise you
on which product to use to give relief of your symptoms. Always
be sure to tell the pharmacist if you are taking other medication.
If, following the advice above, your
symptoms are eased then you should begin to feel better within 3
to 4 days.
However, if you do not start to
feel better after a few days or you feel worse or have any unusual
symptoms, please do go back to see your doctor for more advice.
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