Acute Sore Throat
Sore throats are very common and usually, nothing to worry about. They generally get better within a week without antibiotics. Sore throats can be caused by viruses or bacteria. 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 an acute sore throat may include:
- Pain or discomfort when swallowing
- Swollen glands in the neck
- A frequent urge to clear your throat
- Fever above 38°C
- Pus visible in the 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 Jardines Pharmacy Can Help?
Our pharmacists can assess and support patients aged five years and over.
During your consultation, the pharmacist will ask about your medical history and any additional symptoms to rule out other conditions or complications that may require urgent referral to your GP or another healthcare service. They will examine your throat using a light and tongue depressor and may gently check your neck to see if your glands are swollen.
Based on your symptoms, the pharmacist may recommend suitable over-the-counter treatments. If further treatment is required, they can supply a course of antibiotics where clinically appropriate.
Children Under Five: If your child is under five years old, this service is not available. However, our pharmacists and pharmacy team can provide self-care advice or guide you to your GP or other appropriate healthcare services if needed.