What is a sore throat?
A sore throat is a feeling of pain or discomfort in the throat. They are very common, especially during the winter months, but they are usually nothing to worry about. In most cases, a sore throat should get better by itself within a week.
You can usually manage a sore throat at home. However, if your throat is particularly painful, you may want to seek the advice of your local Day Lewis pharmacist.
What are the symptoms of a sore throat?
There are a range of symptoms of a sore throat and they may vary in severity. The most common symptoms can include:
- Pain and discomfort – soreness, irritation, or pain in the throat is the most common symptom. The pain can range from mild to severe.
- Itchiness – many people with a sore throat describe it as feeling scratchy or itchy.
- Dryness – your throat may feel dry and parched.
- Difficulty swallowing – sore throats can make swallowing food and liquids uncomfortable or painful.
- Hoarseness – your voice may sound raspy or hoarse, and it might crack or sound different.
- Swollen glands – you may notice that the lymph nodes in your neck swell and feel tender to the touch.
- Redness and inflammation – the back of the throat may appear red and inflamed when examined.
- Coughing – a sore throat can trigger coughing, especially if it’s associated with postnasal drip, or sore throat can be part of the symptoms of a viral infection such as a cold or flu.
- Fever – a sore throat caused by a bacterial infection, like strep throat, may be accompanied by a fever and pus on the tonsils.
- Fatigue – sore throats can lead to a feeling of overall tiredness and malaise.
- Bad breath – foul-smelling breath may result from bacteria or debris in the throat.
What causes a sore throat?
The most common causes of a sore throat are:
- Viral infections, such as the common cold & flu
You might also have a blocked or runny nose, cough, headache, general aches or a high temperature.
- Glandular fever
This is a viral infection that mostly affects young adults and can cause a severe sore throat, usually accompanied by a high temperature, swollen glands and tiredness.
- Bacterial infections, such as strep throat or bacterial tonsillitis
These can lead to inflammation of the throat or tonsils which can cause a painful sore throat.
- Allergies
Allergies to pollen, dust, pets or other allergens can lead to a sore throat.
- Environmental factors
Exposure to smoke, pollutants, dry air, or other irritants can irritate the throat and cause discomfort.
- Vocal strain
Overusing or straining the voice, such as through excessive talking, singing, or yelling, can result in a sore throat.
How to treat a sore throat
There are a number of things you can try to relieve the discomfort of a sore throat and reduce how long it lasts:
- Gargle warm salt water, although young children should not do this
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Eat cool, soft foods
- Stop smoking or being in smoky environments
- Suck hard sweets, ice cubes or an ice lolly
- Get lots of rest
If you are struggling with the symptoms of your sore throat and you’re having trouble getting rid of it yourself, why not speak to the team at your local Day Lewis Pharmacy for further advice and alternative sore throat treatment options?
Our team of pharmacists are highly trained and armed with the knowledge to recommend the best course of action for you. As part of the NHS Pharmacy First Service, our pharmacists are now able to suggest both over-the-counter medicines for a sore throat, as well as medications you would usually only be able to get on prescription. This means you can access effective treatments without needing to make an appointment with your GP first.
When you visit us in-pharmacy, our Day Lewis pharmacists will be able to assess your symptoms and discuss the different ways you can relieve the pain of a sore throat. If your sore throat pain is mild, they may be able to suggest painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, as well as medicated lozenges, sprays and over-the-counter medicine for strep throat. If your throat pain is more severe, our team may be able to recommend sore throat antibiotics.
Why visit your local Day Lewis Pharmacy to treat a sore throat?
When you’re feeling under the weather with a sore throat, Day Lewis Pharmacy is here for you. Simply visit us at your local pharmacy to learn more about the NHS Pharmacy First Service and how it can benefit you.
There are plenty of reasons why Day Lewis Pharmacy should be your first choice when you have a sore throat:
- Easy and convenient: Visiting us is easy and convenient. We have over 260 pharmacies across the country, meaning you’re never too far away from your nearest location. We’re always just a short walk or car journey away.
- A range of effective treatments: The team at your local Day Lewis Pharmacy are readily available to assist you in finding an effective sore throat treatment that will work for you. They can recommend over-the-counter remedies, as well as prescription-strength medication.
- Expert advice you can trust: All of our pharmacists are highly qualified with a broad knowledge of sore throat and how to treat it. You can trust their advice about which sore throat medication might work best for you.
If you’re struggling with the symptoms of a sore throat, don’t hesitate to visit your nearest Day Lewis Pharmacy today or book online now.
