Sore Throat, also known as pharyngitis, is typically a sensation of soreness in the throat. Some features of a sore throat include scratchiness, difficulty or painful swallowing, tonsil swelling, and hoarse voice. This symptom can also be associated with body aches, headaches, fevers, chills, runny nose, nausea and vomiting. Sore throats could be considered an emergency if there is an onset of difficulty breathing, drooling and significant difficulty swallowing.
What causes sore throat?
- Allergies (Pollen, pet dander, dust or post nasal drip),
- Viruses (common cold, Influenza, Mononucleosis)
- Bacterial infections (Strep throat, upper respiratory infection).
Symptoms of sore throat
Symptoms including difficulty swallowing, fever, hoarseness lasting over a week, sore throat for over a week, ear ache, difficulty opening your mouth, rash or lump in your neck should be evaluated by a medical professional.
What is strep throat?
Many of the illnesses that cause sore throats have similar symptoms. If you have a sore throat, you can treat the pain with acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen. If the soreness in your throat is still there after two days, go to your local FastMed clinic. The medical provider may need to run tests to find the cause of your sore throat so that you can get the right treatment. Strep throat is caused by a type of bacteria called Streptococcus. The pain of strep throat often feels like a sore throat caused by other illnesses. The important thing about strep throat is that you could get serious complications if it is not treated with antibiotics.
What is the treatment for a sore throat caused by bacteria?
If your sore throat is caused by Streptococcus, your medical provider will probably give you an antibiotic. It is important to take the antibiotic as prescribed–all of it—even if you start feeling better in a few days.
How can I feel better?
- Take acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen.
- Gargle with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in a large glass of water).
- Suck on throat lozenges or hard candy.
- Suck on flavored frozen desserts, such as frozen ice pops.
- Use a humidifier.
FastMed Urgent Care prides itself on fast, efficient and cost effective care. We maintain a team of highly qualified medical professionals at all of our locations who are ready to serve you. They are able to evaluate your sore throat and other symptoms, and tailor treatment specific to your condition. FastMed healthcare providers can even provide you with onsite medications, which saves you valuable time by avoiding lines at a pharmacy. FastMed Urgent Care clinics offer convenient, immediate care seven days a week, 365 days a year. If you or a family member are experiencing symptoms of a sore throat, please do not hesitate to visit your local neighborhood FastMed Urgent Care.
Wendell C. John, MSN, FNP-C
Practice Manager
FastMed Urgent Care Clinic-Wake Forest
Related Resources:
Acute Bronchitis | Bronchitis Treatment | Sore Throat Remedies | Strep Throat Symptoms | Strep Throat What it Looks Like