Sore throat

A sore throat (pharyngitis) is usually a symptom of a bacterial or viral infection, such as the common cold. If you have a sore throat, you may also have swollen tonsils (tonsillitis), enlarged and tender glands in your neck or discomfort when swallowing.

You may have a high temperature of 38C (100.4F) and aching muscles, tiredness, headache, cough or runny nose.

Treating a sore throat Most sore throats aren’t serious and usually pass without medical treatment. Over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, and self-care tips can help relieve the symptoms.

Antibiotics are prescribed in particularly severe cases or if you’re considered at risk of a more serious infection.

How long will it last? A recent UK study found symptoms in half of cases settle after seven days, and in eight out of 10 cases symptoms go after 10 days.

For a persistent high temperature or symptoms lasting more than a week, see your GP who may do a test for glandular fever.

Emergency medical care Contact your GP asap if you’re in severe pain, have difficulty breathing or swallowing, or aren’t able to swallow enough fluids.

At-risk groups See your GP at the first sign of infection if you have HIV and AIDS, leukaemia, aplastic anaemia (when your bone marrow doesn’t produce enough blood cells), or you’re receiving chemotherapy, an immunosuppressant drug or an antithyroid medication.