How Do You Know When a Sore Throat Needs Treatment?
Most sore throats settle on their own within a week using simple self-care, so sore throat treatment from a clinician usually only becomes necessary if the pain is severe, lasts longer than a week, or comes with certain red flag symptoms. Knowing which pattern you are dealing with helps you decide whether to wait it out or get checked. What Causes a Sore Throat? A sore throat is most commonly caused by a viral infection, such as a cold or flu, although some are caused by bacteria. Other possible sore throat causes include smoking, dry air, and acid reflux. As most cases are viral, NHS guidance confirms that antibiotics are not usually needed or effective. For most people, self-care is therefore the first step. Sore Throat Symptoms That Usually Settle on Their Own Mild to moderate symptoms that gradually improve are usually nothing to worry about and do not need clinical treatment. Most settle within about a week with rest and simple measures to ease the discomfort. You can usually ...
