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Sore Throat

Treatments for a sore throat

Source: NHS

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The following measures can often help soothe a sore throat:

  • take Painkillers, ibuprofen or paracetamol paracetamol is better for children and for people who can't take ibuprofen (note that children under 16 should never take aspirin )
  • drink plenty of cool or warm fluids,and avoid very hot drinks
  • eatcool, soft foods
  • avoid smoking and smoky places
  • gargle with a homemade mouthwash of warm, salty water
  • suck lozenges, hard sweets, ice cubes or ice lollies but don't give young children anything small and hard to suck because of the risk of choking

There are alsoproducts such asmedicated lozenges and sprays sold in pharmacies that you may want to try.There isn't muchscientific evidence to suggest they help, although some people find them worth using.

Antibiotics aren't usually prescribed for a sore throat, even if it's caused by a bacterial infection, as they're unlikely to make you feel better any quicker andthey canhaveunpleasant side effects .

Articles for Sore Throat

Causes of a sore throat

The cause of a sore throat isn't always obvious. Butin most cases it's a symptom of a viral or bacterialinfection. Common causes A sore throatis often a symptom of: colds or flu you may also have

Introduction

Find out what can cause a sore throat, how you can soothe it and when to get medical advice.

Treatments for a sore throat

The following measures can often help soothe a sore throat: take Painkillers, ibuprofen or paracetamol paracetamol is better for children and for people who can't take ibuprofen (note that childre

When to get emergency help

Very rarely, a sore throat can be a sign of a serious problem. Visit your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department or call 999 for an ambulance immediately if: your symptoms are severe

When to get medical advice

You don't usually need to get medical adviceif youhavea sore throat. But it's a good idea tocontact your GP or NHS 111 if: your symptoms are severe you have persistent symptoms thathaven't started