Sore throat also called pharyngitis, is an irritation or pain in the throat. Your throat may feel dry and scratchy. It is a very common condition. Children and teens are more likely to develop sore throats than others. They are more likely to have 'strep throat', which is a bacterial infection associated with a sore throat. Allergies from molds or pet dander, exposure to tobacco smoke, chemical irritants, frequent sinus infections, weakened immunity are some risk factors for sore throat.
Following are some signs and symptoms of having a sore throat
Painful swallowing.
Throat pain.
Swollen lymph nodes in your neck.
Tiny red spots on the area at the back of the roof of the mouth.
Fever.
Cough.
Runny nose.
Sneezing.
Body aches.
Headache.
Rash.
Nausea or vomiting.
Muffled voice.
Reduced appetite.
Swollen tonsils.
Usually, sore throat goes away on its own after 2-3 days or after some home remedies. But get immediate medical care if your child has - difficulty in breathing or swallowing or having unusual drooling. If you're an adult and having difficulty opening your mouth, blood in your saliva or phlegm, high fever more than 101 F (38.3 C), a lump in your neck, or joint pain see a doctor.
Have a look at the causes of it
The most common cause is a viral infection such as flu.
Measles or chickenpox.
Mono (mononucleosis).
Coronavirus disease.
Croup, a childhood illness characterized by a harsh, barking cough.
Smoking.
Someone can get a sore throat after yelling, singing, or talking loudly for a long period. Repeated use strains the vocal cords and muscles in the throat.
Bacterial infections, caused by the bacteria streptococcus pyogenes.
Dehydration.
If you have white patches on the tonsils or at the back of the throat, then it is strep throat.
Following are the preventive measures for sore throat
Try comforting foods and beverages.
Have plenty of fluids, keep your throat moist.
Avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol, as they make you dehydrated.
Avoid irritants.
Do not drink or eat too cold beverages and ice creams, especially at night.
Avoid oily food.
Humidify the air.
Stay away from the people who are sick.
Wash your hands often.
Quit smoking.
Eat a healthy diet.
For diagnosis, your doctor conducts a physical exam that includes
Gently feeling the neck to check swollen glands or tonsils, listening to breathing with a stethoscope, using a lighted instrument to look at the throat. In severe conditions, your doctor may take a throat swab.
Manage your sore throat with these remedies
Gargle with saltwater, use sea salt.
Inhale steam.
Drink warm water only.
Make sure to take a rest properly.
Sip chicken broth or warm, caffeine-free tea with honey. Use honey for children at least 1 year of age or older, not less than that.
Use over-the-counter medications, ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking them.
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