In this article, you’ll learn briefly about the causes and symptoms of sore throats, and what you can do to treat it. This is an extension of our previous, more in-depth article here, with more of an emphasis of self-care. As always, if you need any help or have any questions regarding the information in this article, please contact us. 

Understanding Sore Throats

Sore throats are caused by the inflammation of tissues in the larynx, pharynx, and tonsils. They usually last up to three days and are often associated with the flu, colds, and other viral infections like measles, mumps, chickenpox, glandular fever, and whooping cough.

Causes of Sore Throats

Sore throats can be caused by either viral or bacterial infections. Viral infections are more common and typically resolve on their own, whereas bacterial infections often require antibiotic treatment.

Symptoms of Sore Throats

Common symptoms of sore throats caused by bacteria or viruses include:

– Painful, red throat
– Swollen tonsils
– Difficulty swallowing
– Swollen lymph glands and neck stiffness

Sore Throat Test: Identify the Cause

Our sore throat test can determine if you have a bacterial infection, like strep A, within 10 minutes. You may be eligible for the test if you have:

– A history of fever
– No cough
– Tonsillar exudates
– Swollen, tender anterior cervical nodes

Treatments for Sore Throats

If your sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection, we can provide a course of antibiotics without a prescription, if there are no contraindications. For viral infections, treatment is usually not necessary as they typically resolve on their own. You can find more about other treatments available at Colecross Pharmacy here.

Self-Care Tips for Sore Throats

It’s important to practice self-care at all times. When experiencing a sore throat, consider these self-care tips to alleviate discomfort without prescription medication:

– Drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids
– Gargling with warm, salty water
– Taking paracetamol to reduce fever
– Gargling with soluble aspirin (adults only) before swallowing
– Sucking on throat lozenges
– Using throat sprays
– Get ample rest to support your immune system in fighting the infection
– Avoiding smoking and alcohol
– Avoid irritants like cigarette smoke and strong odours to prevent further throat irritation

One self-care tip above that is overlooked too much in our busy lives is sleep and rest. This, along with being hydrated sufficiently should be at the forefront of your self-care routine as improving these will improve your overall immune system and fight off infection quicker.

Sore Throat Test and Treat Service in Chelmsford

Don’t know where we are? Find us on Google below:

Our trained pharmacists offer a convenient test and treat service for sore throats. No appointment is necessary so you can walk into our private clinic at any time.

Service Details:

– Price: There is a small fee for this service. Please message us to enquire.
– Frequency: When required.

Availability: Please be sure to book in via our online booking calendar to see what times we are available

Book your sore throat test and treat now and get back to feeling your best.

Book Now

This blog post was written on behalf of Colecross Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.