Seasonal ailments: how to cure a sore throat?

By Cristiano Antonino On Apr 28, 2023

Sore throats are not all the same and can differ in both symptoms and causes. Although they are often linked to seasonal maladies, in reality the causes and treatment can be profoundly different

Sore throat: causes and symptoms

Sore throats are commonly caused by viruses or bacteria, although it can be difficult to distinguish them.

The most common symptoms of a viral sore throat are:

stuffy nose
runny nose
red or burning eyes
cough

If the sore throat is bacterial, as in the case of a sore throat caused by streptococcus, which is particularly common in children, characteristic symptoms are

severe pain/burning in the throat
fever (over 38°C)
swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Viral sore throats usually resolve on their own within a few days; however, if the symptoms persist for more than 5-7 days or if the fever exceeds 38°C, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Remedies against sore throat

If the sore throat is caused by a virus, no specific treatment is necessary.

However, if the cause is bacterial, antibiotics may be necessary.

Most adults with strep throat will recover without antibiotics, but if symptoms persist after a few days, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Obtaining a prescription for antibiotics is essential; self-medication with antibiotics left over from a previous treatment is not recommended, as the doctor may decide that a different type of antibiotic or combination of antibiotics is more appropriate, based on the patient’s medical history and physical test.

This is because antibiotics can be used to prevent complications caused by streptococcus, such as pneumonia, reduce symptoms and prevent the infection from spreading to vulnerable people in the community or family (elderly, young children, immunocompromised persons).

What to take for sore throat

Medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are recommended to relieve sore throats.

Taking over-the-counter painkillers and using medicated sore throat lozenges or sprays can help relieve sore throats.

In addition, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking at least 1.5 litres of water a day and using a humidifier to prevent dryness.

Above all, avoid smoking and being around people who do so to avoid worsening throat pain.

Is sore throat contagious?

In the case of a strep throat, it is advisable to wait a few days after taking an antibiotic and the symptoms have improved before returning to school or work: this drastically reduces the chances of transmitting the bacterial sore throat to other people, with possible serious repercussions.

If your sore throat is not caused by strep, you can resume your usual activities when you feel better.

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To prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria that cause sore throats and influenza, it is essential to cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing, wash your hands after coughing and sneezing, before eating and preparing meals, and isolate yourself if you live with vulnerable people.

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