Remedies To Sore Throat Problems

A sore throat (or throat pain) is pain or irritation of the throat. A common physical symptom, it is usually caused by acute pharyngitis (inflammation of the throat), although it can also appear as a result of trauma, diphtheria, or other conditions. A sore throat may cause mild to extreme pain.

Signs and symptoms

 

Physical examination of a patient with a sore throat and high fever.

• painful and swollen tonsils
• tender and swollen glands in your neck
• painful, tender sensation at the back of your throat
• discomfort when swallowing

Other symptoms associated with common infectious conditions may be experienced, such as:

• a high temperature (fever)
• chills
• headache
• tiredness
• aching muscles
• runny nose
• coughing
• sneezing
• general feeling of being unwell

In young children:

• refusing to feed
• irritability
• frequent crying
• high temperature
• cough
• difficulty sleeping
• sneezing
• runny nose
• diarrhea
• tiredness and feeling generally unwell

Treatment

Analgesics such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol (acetaminophen) help in the management of pain. Steroids are also useful in this respect. The Mayo Clinic advises gargling with salty warm water, and resting the voice.

Symptoms without active treatment usually last two to seven days. Other remedies include throat lozenges, cough syrups, and chicken soup.