Sore Throat

Sore throats can have a variety of causes, each requiring a different approach to treatment.

Common Causes of Sore Throats:

• Viral infections
• Bacterial infections like strep throat and tonsillitis
• Allergies
• Acid reflux
• Strained vocal chords
• Environmental irritants like smoke and pollution

When you visit a Pinnacle ENT specialist, the goal isn’t only to relieve your symptoms, but also to identify the underlying cause.

Diagnostic Process:

• Medical History and Physical Exam: Your ENT specialist will begin by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and previous treatments. A physical exam is necessary to examine your throat, ears, and nasal passages while checking your neck and listening to your breathing.
• Throat Swab Test: If the cause is suspected to be a bacterial infection, a throat swab may be performed to confirm the presence of bacteria.

If your sore throat persists for longer than a week, it might be due to a bacterial infection like strep throat, which can be easily treated with antibiotics. Frequent sore throats are not typical and could indicate a recurring tonsil infection, possibly requiring a tonsillectomy. Visiting our ENT specialist will confirm a diagnosis and offer appropriate treatment options.

For most, a sore throat can be managed with simple home remedies that provide relief while your body heals.

Home Remedies for Soothing a Sore Throat

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.

• Gargling with salt water can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

• Rest your voice and give your vocal cords a rest to prevent further irritation.

• Use lozenges or hard candy to help keep your throat moist and to reduce irritation.
• Over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.

While many sore throats don’t warrant a doctor’s visit, recognizing specific symptoms can help identify worsening or more severe conditions, allowing you to seek medical advice before the condition evolves.

For Children:

• If the sore throat doesn’t improve after a day of rest, particularly after drinking fluids.
• Seek immediate care if your child has difficulty breathing, swallowing, or drooling excessively.

For Adults:

• If your sore throat lasts longer than a week or is accompanied by severe symptoms.
• Other symptoms that require medical attention might include:
  • Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or opening your mouth
  • A fever higher than 101°F
  • Swelling in your neck or face
  • A lump in your neck
  • Joint pain or earache
  • Rashes