Sore Throat (Pharyngitis)
A sore throat is a symptom of many medical disorders including but not limited to cancer, “referred” pain from the sinuses or ears, infections (e.g. viral, bacterial, yeast), GERD (reflux), seasonal allergies, dry heat during winter months, excessive yelling, etc.
Home remedies for a sore throat
A mild sore throat associated with a cold or flu symptoms can be made more comfortable with:
- Drinking more fluids…try tea with honey
- Using a humidifier at night
- Gargling with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of water)
- Take mild pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
When to seek medical care
Dr. Lieberman suggests that whenever a sore throat is severe, persists longer than the usual 5 to 7day duration of a cold or flu and is not associated with an avoidable allergy or irritation, you should make an appointment to be seen.
Other symptoms indicating the need for an otolaryngologist include:
- Severe and prolonged sore throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Joint pain
- Earache
- Rash
- Fever (over 100.4*)
- Blood in saliva or phlegm
- Frequently recurring sore throat
- Lump in neck
- Hoarseness lasting over 2 week