Sore Throat

Service Description

This is an NHS funded service

Sore throats can be caused by viruses or bacteria and generally get better within a week without antibiotics.  

Most sore throats are caused by minor illnesses, such as colds, and can be treated at home.

What are the symptoms of an Acute Sore Throat?

Signs of Acute Sore Throat may include:

  • Discomfort when swallowing
  • Swollen glands in your neck
  • Feeling the need to clear your throat
  • High temperature above 38oC (fever)
  • Presence of pus in your throat
  • Severely inflamed tonsils.

What can I do to relieve these symptoms?

You can help relieve your symptoms by:

  • Taking over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
  • Drinking plenty of cool or warm (not very hot) drinks
  • Sucking medicated lozenges, hard sweets, ice cubes or ice lollies
  • Avoid smoking and smoky places
  • Gargling with warm, salty water (children should not try this).

When should I seek help?

If your symptoms are getting worse you may benefit from a course of antibiotics.

If you or your child’s symptoms are severe or getting worse quickly, you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, you have started drooling or are making a high-pitched sound as you breathe, you should seek urgent medical attention.

How can WE help?

Our Pharmacists can help people aged five and over.

They will ask you about your medical history and other symptoms to exclude other conditions or complications that need urgent referral to your GP or other sources of help. They will look down your throat, using a light and a tongue depressor, and may feel your neck to find out if your glands are swollen.

They may recommend products you can buy over the counter, as above. If your symptoms suggest further treatment is needed our Pharmacists can supply you with a course of antibiotics, if appropriate.

What if my child is under five years of age?

If your child is younger than five we cannot offer this service to them. Our Pharmacists, or members of the Pharmacy Team, can give self-care advice or refer your child to your GP as appropriate.

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