Sore Throat

What is a sore throat?

A sore throat is a symptom of one of many types of infections or irritants. If you have a sore throat, your throat may feel dry and scratchy, no matter how many fluids you drink. The soreness typically worsens when you swallow or speak. It might even affect the way you speak by making your voice sound quiet or hoarse. 

To diagnose the cause of your sore throat, your Physicians Medical Primary Care doctor reviews all other symptoms that you have. They may examine your tonsils for swelling, redness, or white patches that could indicate an infection. If an infection is causing your sore throat, you might also have a fever, runny nose, body aches, headache, or other symptoms. 

What causes a sore throat?

A sore throat has many potential causes, and Physicians Medical Primary Care can help you find yours and a fitting treatment for it. Common sore throat causes include:

Cold or flu

The most common cause of sore throat symptoms is a viral infection like the common cold or the flu. Viral infections like these usually go away on their own after a few days, but your doctor can help you find relief for your symptoms.

Strep throat

Another common cause of a sore throat is strep throat, a bacterial infection that affects your throat tissues and tonsils. Physicians Medical Primary Care uses a rapid strep test to find out quickly whether or not strep throat is causing your sore throat. 

Other bacterial infections that can make your throat sore include tonsillitis and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like gonorrhea and chlamydia. 

Your sore throat might not be linked to an illness at all. Irritants like smoke and airborne chemicals can make your throat itch temporarily, or an injury to the neck might make your throat feel sore on the inside.

How can I relieve a sore throat?

Finding relief for your sore throat may depend on the cause of your symptoms. If you have a bacterial infection like strep throat or tonsillitis, or an STD, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to alleviate the infection and reduce your symptoms in the process.

To relieve general throat soreness from any cause, they may recommend:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers
• Throat lozenges
• Cough syrup
• Rest
• Drinking water
• Gargling saltwater
• Using a humidifier

If you have a viral infection causing a sore throat, you should stay away from other people until your symptoms are gone to avoid spreading the infection.  

To find out what’s causing your sore throat and get quick relief, call Physicians Medical Primary Care, or request an appointment online today.