COLD AND FLU
Sore Throats
A sore throat is usually a symptom of a viral illness such as a cold or flu, or other viruses such as:
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Mononucleosis (mono – the "kissing disease")
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Mumps
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Herpangina
Most of the time, sore throats are self-limited – this means they tend to go away on their own.
Less commonly, sore throats can be caused by a bacterial infection such as:
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Strep throat*
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Infected tonsils
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An infection of the epiglottis or uvula at the back of your throat
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Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea
Other causes of sore throat can include:
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Gastro esophageal reflux disorder (GERD or acid reflux)
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Irritation from air pollution, yelling, or nasal drainage down the back of your throat (post-nasal drip)
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Breathing through your mouth because your nose is stuffy from a cold or allergies
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An injury to the back of the throat
Home Treatment
Sore throats can usually be treated at home. Here are some helpful tips to managing your sore throat:
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Gargle with warm salt water
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Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
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Warm fluids such as soup, tea or warm water with honey can be soothing to the throat
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Use of a vaporizer or humidifier in your bedroom
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Non-prescription throat lozenges such as Halls can be helpful; even just hard candies can also soothe a sore throat... and they taste better!
When to see a Doctor
If you develop any of these symptoms:
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Difficulty breathing
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Severe pain
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Inability to drink fluids, or choking on fluids
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A new rash or fever develops
How Do I Know if This is Strep Throat?
Very few sore throats turn out to be strep. Here are some signs that it might be strep:
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You have had contact with someone known to have strep
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Your throat is VERY sore - it feels like there are razor blades in your throat
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You are NOT coughing and do not have a cold or flu
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You have tender lumps along your neck (lymph nodes)
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You have a fever
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Your tonsils are very swollen and/or there are white spots on them
Suspect you have strep throat? Call your doctor.