Pharyngitis, often referred to as a sore throat, can cause pain in the neck, in the back of the mouth, and/or the tongue. This unpleasant symptom often occurs concurrent with other symptoms of illness. Many patients are concerned when they suffer from a sore throat and wonder how they can treat this issue at home.
The following informational article examines potential causes of a sore throat, at-home tips for relief, and reveals when patients should seek the aid of a healthcare professional.
What is Pharyngitis?
Pharyngitis is sore throat that can be a result of numerous ailments. This pain may feel scratchy, inflamed, sore, and/or dry.
What Causes a Sore Throat?
There are numerous illnesses that can cause a sore throat both viral and bacterial. Some of these illnesses can be treated at home, while others, including infections, require prescription medication.
Common Causes Include:
- Strep Throat
- Flu
- Common Cold
- Allergies
- Tonsillitis
- Dryness
A sore throat can also result from overuse (yelling, screaming, talking excessively), smoking, and other irritants.
Can I Treat a Sore Throat at Home?
There are several things that patients can try at home to relieve a sore throat. Warm beverages are good choices for providing relief, such as warm tea. Honey can also be added to soothe the pain of a dry cough.
Drinking plenty of fluids is important if your sore throat is the result of a viral infection.
Other At-Home Sore Throat Treatment Tips Include:
- OTC Pain Medication
- Allergy Medicine
- Throat Lozenges
- Ice Chips (Adults)
- Popsicles
It is important to stay home, eat well, and get plenty of rest if you believe that you may be sick.
Sore Throat Prevention
The best way to avoid infectious illnesses is to practice good personal hygiene, including washing your hands well and often.
Other Sore Throat Prevention Tips Include:
- Change Your Toothbrush Regularly
- Stop Smoking/Avoid Secondhand Smoke
- Use Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer
- Avoid Sick People
When to See a Doctor
The majority of sore throats should clear up on their own in a few days with at-home treatment and rest. You should see a doctor if symptoms do not improve or if your sore throat occurs concurrently with other symptoms.
When to See a Doctor:
- Severe Pain
- Rash
- Fever
- Difficulty Breathing
- Trouble Sleeping
These symptoms may indicate that there is a more serious issue.
Urgent Care Can Diagnose and Treat Pharyngitis
Stop in at your local Urgent Care Center today to get relief from your pharyngitis. Medical professionals can diagnose and treat the condition that may be causing your discomfort. Visit Urgent Care online to learn more about the preventive, diagnostic, and treatment services that are available on a walk-in basis.
Contact AFC Urgent Care today for more information.
