A sore throat is a scratchy, dry, and painful feeling in a person’s throat. A painful throat is one of the most common symptoms associated with a sore throat. It makes up the majority of cases that need doctors on an annual basis. You can get in touch with us to learn about what causes a sore throat in Birmingham.
More about what causes a sore throat in Birmingham
A huge number of sore throat cases are a result of environmental factors like dry air or infections. Even if a sore throat comes with a lot of discomforts, it usually goes away on its own.
There are three major types of sore throat. They are:
– Tonsillitis – the tonsils swell and become red
– Pharyngitis – attacks the area behind the mouth
– Laryngitis – causes redness, as well as swelling of the voice box or larynx
Symptoms of a sore throat
The symptoms of a sore throat are different depending on what caused it. These symptoms include:
– A scratchy throat
– Dry throat
– A burning sensation
– Feeling irritation
– Tenderness
Talking or swallowing can worsen the symptoms. In this case, a red colour may be witnessed on the tonsils or throat.
In other serious cases, a formation of pus or white patches can be witnessed on the tonsils. Some of the other symptoms are:
– Appetite loss
– Body aches
– Nasal congestion
– Headache
– Coughing
– Swollen glands in the neck
– Runny nose
– Fever
– Sneezing
– Hoarse voice
– Chills
– Trouble swallowing
What causes a sore throat in Birmingham?
Sore throats can result from issues such as infections and injuries. Below is a list of some of the most known causes:
– Viral infections like the flu and colds – viruses are top of the list when it comes to the most common sources.
– Bacterial infections like strep throat
– Dry air – dry air removes moisture from your mouth and throat, which leads to a dry and scratchy feeling.
– Allergies – the immune system reacts to triggers like grass, pet dander, and pollen, which leads to the release of chemicals. This initiates throat irritation, nasal congestion, sneezing, and watery eyes.
– Irritants such as smoke and chemicals can lead to a sore throat
– GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease) – a health complication that happens when your stomach acids push back into the esophagus. The acid burns the esophagus and the throat, creating symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux.
Check out our latest blog post for more information on flu and colds here:
Home remedies for a sore throat (How to avoid what causes a sore throat in Birmingham)
Most sore throat cases can be treated using home remedies. Ensure to get enough rest so the immune system can get the chance to battle the infection.
To relieve the pains that come with a sore throat:
– Mix warm water with half or one teaspoon of salt and gargle
– Drink warm drinks that can soothe the throat; these may include hot tea with honey, warm water with lemon, as well as soup broth. Herbal tea is especially effective for sore throat treatment
– Eating cold treats such as ice cream or popsicles can help cool the throat
– Minimising your talking until the throat gets better
Learn more about treating minor ailments on our latest blog post here:
How will Saydon Pharmacy help?
There are many ways that we can be of service to you when it comes to a sore throat. We can provide treatments such as:
– Paracetamol and ibuprofen
– Anaesthetic spray
– Medicated lozenges that include anti-inflammatory medicine, antiseptic or anaesthetic
You can get in touch with us for more information.
This blog post was written on behalf of Saydon Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.