Sore Throats Explained

**نسائم الرحمن** · 03:24 PM

Sore Throats Explained

One of the most common medical symptoms our patients come in with during this time of the year is a dry, scratchy or sore throat. Is this something that you’re currently experiencing? Luckily, in most cases, a sore throat is usually caused by a common cold or even allergies. This week we’ll be discussing everything you need to know about scratchy throats. Let’s get started:

What Causes Your Throat to Feel Scratchy?

We mentioned earlier that a sore throat is usually caused by germs associated with colds or the flu. Which one is causing your throat to feel sore?

Most sore throats are caused by viral infections and are often accompanied by other symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, cough, a mild fever, and fatigue.

Allergies can also cause a sore or scratchy throat and can be accompanied by sneezing, and itchy watery eyes.

How to Treat a Sore Throat

There are several ways to ease the soreness of your throat at home without needing to go to the drug store. For starters, try the following:

– Gargle with warm salt water.

– Take a hot shower with a face rag and steam the soreness out.

– Crank up the heat and gently place a warm, damp towel directly on your face. (Doing this will not only make your throat feel better, it’ll also ease any congestion you’re experiencing).

– Take a dose of anti-inflammatory medication like Advil or Aleve.

Seasonal Allergies

If you notice your throat feeling sore during high-pollen seasons and you are also experiencing sneezing, then seasonal allergies may be at fault. We’ve covered several allergy related topics in the past. Last year we told you about 4 Ways to Fight Back Against Allergies. Those tips still apply!

– Take your allergy medicine every day
– Get plenty of vitamin c
– Avoid the outdoors
– Seek out an allergist

Is it Strep Throat?

Unfortunately, strep throat could be a possibility, but don’t worry. It’s very treatable. We’ll discuss strep throat on our blog in detail later this week. For the time being, the Mayo Clinic put together a list of Strep Throat symptoms.

When You Should See a Doctor

Do you think your sore throat needs medical attention from a professional? Come see us if your situation hasn’t improved within five days or if you have a fever over 100°F.

SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION SHOULD YOU EXPEREINCE THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS:

– HAVING TROUBLE MOVING NECK OR MOUTH
– STRUGGLING TO BREATHE
– SWOLLEN NECK