Sore Throat

What is a sore throat?

Sore throats are very common, and they are usually nothing to worry about. They are often caused by minor illnesses, such as a cold or the flu, and they usually get better within a week. 

What are the symptoms of a sore throat?

The symptoms of a sore throat include:

• A painful throat, especially when you swallow
• A dry or scratchy feeling in the throat
• Redness at the back of the mouth
• Swollen neck glands
• A cough
• Bad breath

Young children may also have a temperature and seem less active than usual.

Who qualifies for a Pharmacy First Sore Throat condition appointment? 

• Patients registered with a GP
• Individuals with the symptoms listed above
• Ages 5 years and over

What causes a sore throat?

It’s not always clear what has caused a sore throat, but most of the time it is the symptom of an illness such as a viral or bacterial infection.

A sore throat can be caused by:

• A cold or the flu – you may also develop a runny or blocked nose, a headache, a fever or a cough
• Laryngitis – this refers to inflammation of the voice box. Other symptoms include a hoarse voice, the need to clear your throat frequently and a dry cough
• Tonsillitis – this refers to inflammation of the tonsils. You may also have red, spotty tonsils, a fever and pain when swallowing
• Strep throat – this is a bacterial throat infection that can also cause swollen glands and discomfort when swallowing
• Glandular fever – you may also feel fatigued, develop a high temperature and have swollen neck glands

A sore throat can also be caused by an irritant, such as smoke, allergies or a condition called gastro-oesophageal reflux disease which is when acid from the stomach travels up into the oesophagus. 

How to treat a sore throat

To soothe a sore throat, you can:

• Take painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Gargle with warm, salty water (although children should not do this)
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Eat cool, soft foods
• Avoid smoking and spending time in smoky environments
• Suck on ice lollies or ice cubes
• Get plenty of rest

How can Pharmacy+Health help?

If you’re struggling with your symptoms and think you could benefit from using a specially targeted medicine for a sore throat, speak to the team at your local Pharmacy+Health today.

As a participating pharmacy of the Pharmacy First service, we are now able to assess your symptoms to recommend an effective sore throat medicine that will help soothe your discomfort. Our team of trained pharmacists have the knowledge and experience to recommend suitable solutions that will help you feel better faster, including strep throat treatment options. 

This scheme means you don’t need to speak to your GP first. Our pharmacists can suggest treatments that are usually only available via prescription, such as antibiotics for strep throat and throat infections. We can also offer a range of sore throat remedies, including medicated throat sprays and lozenges.

Visit your local Pharmacy+Health branch to find out more about our sore throat and strep throat treatment options. 

Book a Pharmacy First appointment today

Our fully qualified healthcare experts are here to help you if you or your child suffer from eczema. We provide consultation appointments and treatments for eczema and many other common health conditions. Our expert pharmacists provide clinical advice and will recommend the most suitable treatment for you.

So, for information, advice and eczema treatment, book a pharmacy appointment with us today. We’re here to make accessing healthcare quicker, easier and more convenient.