Sore throat

The majority of sore throats are caused by virus infections, and will get better on their own within five days. The lymph glands in the neck are often swollen during a sore throat, and may be a little sore to the touch. This is a common sign, and shows that the immune system is doing its job in fighting the infection.

What to do

Most sore throats do not need antibiotic treatment, but will be helped by regular paracetamol, frequent sips of cold fluid, soothing lozenges and eating ice-cream (very soothing).

See your GP if:

• A sore throat goes on for longer than five days
• There are white or yellow spots or discharge on the tonsils or the back of the throat
• If there is a lot of swelling on the back of the throat
• If there is any difficulty with breathing
• If there is a large swelling on one side of the inside of the throat only