Sore throats are common and typically not a serious issue, usually improving on their own within a week.
Symptoms of a Sore Throat
If you’re experiencing a sore throat, you might notice:
- Pain in the throat, especially when swallowing
- A dry or scratchy sensation in the throat
- Redness at the back of the mouth
- Bad breath
- A mild cough
- Swollen neck glands
While children may have similar symptoms, they may also develop a high fever and appear more lethargic than usual.
Causes of Sore Throats
Most sore throats are caused by viruses, like those responsible for colds or the flu, or by smoking. In rare instances, bacterial infections can be the culprit.
Other possible causes of a sore throat include:
- Laryngitis
- Tonsillitis
- Strep throat (a bacterial infection)
- Glandular fever
Self-Care for Sore Throats
To relieve discomfort and possibly speed up recovery, try the following remedies:
- Gargle with warm salt water (not recommended for young children)
- Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids
- Eat cool or soft foods
- Avoid smoking or being around smoke
- Suck on ice cubes, ice lollies, or hard candies (be cautious with young children to prevent choking)
- Get sufficient rest
