Health A to Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Sore throat 

Developing a sore throat is very common, and it’s usually nothing serious. It gets better on its own within a week or two. 

Sore throat symptoms

The typical symptoms of sore throat are:

  • Painful throat, especially while swallowing 
  • A dry, scratchy throat
  • Redness inside your mouth
  • Mild cough 
  • Bad breath
  • Swollen neck glands
Children can also develop these symptoms along with a high temperature and appear inactive.

Sore throats causes

Viruses (cold or flu) or smoking usually cause sore throats, but bacteria can occasionally lead to them. Other primary causes are:

  • Laryngitis 
  • Tonsillitis
  • Strep throat 
  • Glandular fever

Sore throat self-treatments

To soothe your sore throat, you can:

  • Drink plenty of water
  • Gargle warm water with salt (but not for children)
  • Eat soft and cool foods
  • Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
Sore throats causes
  • Suck ice cubes, ice lollies, or hard sweets (but not for children since it can be a choking hazard)
  • Get a lot of rest

If you have a high temperature and don’t feel good enough to do your regular activities, try staying at home and avoiding contact with other people till you feel better. 

Consult a doctor if:

  • Your sore throat doesn’t get better after a week
  • You get sore throats more frequently
  • You are worried about your throat
  • You have a high temperature and feeling shivery along with a sore throat
  • You have a weak immune system due to diabetes or chemotherapy.

For personalized advice and support tailored to your health needs, consider our free doctor consultation service, where you can connect with experienced professionals ready to assist you.

Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022