Sore Throat

Sore throat is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection of the throat and/or tonsils. The common cold frequently starts with a mild sore throat. Both viruses and bacteria (especially the Streptococcus bacteria) may cause severe sore throat with pus on the tonsils. A lab test called a throat culture and certain blood tests can help identify the cause so that specific treatment may be given, when appropriate.

An infection of the throat is frequently accompanied by swollen, tender glands in the neck. A fever may also be present.

What should you do about it?

1. Increase your fluid intake.
2. Get plenty of rest and eat as well as possible.
3. Gargle with salt water (1 teaspoon table salt to 1 glass of warm water) or use over-the-counter gargles, sprays, or lozenges.
4. Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen in the usual doses recommended over the counter — usually 1000 mg. of acetaminophen or 400 mg. of ibuprofen every 4 hours for an adult. This will decrease throat pain and reduce any fever you may have.

Remember...

1. A throat infection may be present by itself or accompany an infection elsewhere in the repiratory system.
2. It is important to differentiate between a viral or bacterial cause before antibiotics are prescribed.
3. Infectious mononucleosis is a common cause of sore throat in young people. A specific test is available for this. Certain antibiotics can aggravate this condition.

Call us if...

• Your throat is very painful and/or you see pus on your tonsils.
• Your neck glands are tender and swollen.
• Your temperature is 101 degrees or above.
• Your fever lasts more than 2 days.
• Your sore throat lasts more than 4 days.
• Your sore throat is accompanied by severe fatigue, a productive cough, yellow or green nasal discharge, or a stiff neck.
• You have trouble breathing or swallowing.
• You have any questions about your condition.