Sore Throat
Sore Throat Treatment
Though a sore throat isn’t an emergency, it can be an annoying problem that makes everyday activities such as eating, drinking, and sleeping uncomfortable. Are you experiencing irritation, scratchiness, itchiness or pain that is making swallowing almost unbearable? While pain is the primary side effect of a sore throat, you may also be experiencing:
Dry throat
Swollen glands in your neck
White spots on the tonsils
Fatigue
Fever
Sore Throat Causes
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The common cold and flu may include a sore throat. Sore throats also may occur with other types of viral infections, including mononucleosis, measles, chickenpox and croup in children. If you believe you have a sore throat due to any of these viruses, contact KnowNOW Health today to seek proper diagnosis and medical treatment.
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This is most common in those diagnosed with strep throat, diphtheria or whooping cough. If you experience a sore throat lasting longer than 48 hours after initial treatment, seek medical care so a rapid strep test may be performed. Sometimes a sore throat may look viral but may turn into a bacterial infection days later.
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A sore throat may occur even if you do not have a viral or bacterial infection. Allergies can cause mucus to drip or accumulate in the back of your throat, causing irritation or inflammation. Dry air can make your throat feel scratchy. If you have recently been yelling or talking too much or smoking cigarettes, your throat may feel sore.
Don’t wait weeks or even days for an appointment with your preventative care physician. As a walk-in clinic, you can receive prompt treatment at any one of our KnowNOW locations.
If your throat has hurt for more than one week, visit us at KnowNOW Health. Pay attention to whether you are experiencing the following:
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Joint pain or body aches
A fever of 101 degrees or more
A rash or earache
When to seek medical attention at KnowNOW Health
At-home remedies
for a sore throat:
Self care therapies can include:
Gargle warm, not hot, salt water
Stay hydrated and avoid dairy products, as they may cause mucus to worsen
Use throat lozenges and sprays
Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain, fever or inflammation