sore throat

• Sore Throat

  Usually self limiting and clear within a week

  • Mostly caused by virus's (90%), can be caused by bacteria (10%) (streptococcus)
  • Constant/ varying levels of pain at back of the throat
  • Swollen glands under the chin can be associated and pain on swallowing
• Causes of Sore Throat

  • Colds & Flu
  • Strep throat and bacterial infections
  • Allergies
  • Smoke, chemicals and irritants
  • GORD (Gastro oesophageal reflux disease)
• When to Refer cough

  • Sore throat that lasts longer than 10 days
  • Sore throat with a high temperature/ hot and shivery
  • Patient has a weak immune system - chemotherapy or diabetic patient
  • Dysphagia - difficulty swallowing
  • Concurrent Medication indicating agranulocytosis - Carbimazole, Methotrexate etc.
  • White plaques in the throat, gums/ tongue (suspect - oral thrush)
  • Red and swollen tonsils (may have white pus on tonsils) (swollen lymph glands) (suspect - tonsillitis, viral/bacterial infections)
  • Any difficulty breathing
• Treatmentfor sore throat

  • Local Anaesthetics, Benzocaine/ Lidocaine sprays/lozenges. Help to ease the pain, should not be used for greater than 5 days
  • Anti-inflammatories, Flubiprofen lozenges (Strefen), Benzydamine spray (Difflam), Dispersible Aspirin (adults only >16yrs). eases pain and inflammation
  • Antiseptic, Cetylpyridium (Strepsils)
  • Salt water, gargling helps soothe the sore throat
• Counselling for sore throat?

  > Sucking pastilles/ lozenges can help soothe sore throats as saliva production stimulated lubricates the throat

  
  

  > Drink plenty of water whilst symptoms are present

  >Lozenges not suitable under 12 years

  > avoid smoking

  > do not share drinks