Sore throats are a common health complaint, particularly during the colder months or times of seasonal change. While often mild, a sore throat can make swallowing, eating, and speaking uncomfortable. Most sore throats resolve on their own, but your pharmacist has products to help relieve symptoms and can advise when further medical attention is needed.
Symptoms
A sore throat, or pharyngitis, is characterised by irritation, dryness, or pain in the throat. Symptoms may include:
- A scratchy or burning sensation in the throat
- Pain or discomfort when swallowing, which may be dull or sharp
- Redness on the back of the throat
- Swollen glands in the neck or jaw
- Hoarseness or loss of voice
- Fever, cough, or runny nose (in viral infections)
In some cases, particularly with bacterial infections like *Streptococcus pyogenes* (Strep throat), symptoms may be more severe and accompanied by fever, swollen tonsils, and white patches in the back of the mouth and top of the throat.
Causes
The most common causes of sore throats include:
- Viral infections (e.g. common cold, influenza, COVID-19) – These account for most cases and usually resolve within 5–7 days. A sore throat may be caused by the post-nasal drip associated with some viral infections.
- Bacterial infections – Such as strep throat, which may require antibiotics.
- Allergies – Hay fever and allergic rhinitis can lead to postnasal drip, which irritates the throat.
- Dry air – From indoor heating or air conditioning.
- Irritants – Smoking, pollution, or exposure to chemicals.
- Voice strain – Yelling or speaking loudly for extended periods.
- Fungal infections
Other infections that can result in a sore throat include glandular fever, tonsillitis, and croup.
Lifestyle options
There are several at-home remedies and lifestyle changes that may prevent or ease sore throat symptoms:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep the throat moist
- Soothing drinks: Warm teas, broths, or honey and lemon in warm water can also reduce irritation
- Rest your voice: Avoid speaking loudly or for long periods
- Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to dry air can reduce throat dryness
- Gargle with saltwater: This may relieve discomfort and reduce inflammation
- Avoid irritants: Refrain from smoking and exposure to harsh chemicals or fumes
Pharmacy options
Your local pharmacy offers several over-the-counter treatments that can help ease sore throat symptoms:
- Throat lozenges, sprays or gargles: These may contain mild anaesthetics, such as benzocaine and lidocaine; and/or anti-inflammatories, such as flurbiprofen and benzydamine to reduce swelling and pain
- Pain relief medication: Such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage discomfort and any accompanying fever
- Decongestants or antihistamines: These are available in tablets and nasal sprays and may be useful if your sore throat is due to allergies or postnasal drip. Decongestants in nasal sprays contain ingredients, such as oxymetazoline, xylometazoline. Ask your pharmacist about available oral products.
- Antihistamines contain ingredients such as fexofenadine, bilastine, loratadine and cetirizine in oral formulas; and azelastine and levocabastine in nasal sprays
- Antibacterial lozenges: These contain ingredients such as dichlorobenzyl alcohol, amylmetacresol and hexylresorcinol and may help with minor bacterial infections or throat irritation
- Antibacterial gargles: These contain ingredients such as povidone iodine and may be beneficial to use at the first sign of a sore throat to target specific bacteria that cause sore throats
Your pharmacist will advise if your symptoms suggest a bacterial infection and whether you need to see your doctor. If your sore throat lasts longer than a week, worsens, or is accompanied by a high fever, difficulty breathing, or ear pain, get medical attention as soon as possible.
More information
Healthdirect Australia: www.healthdirect.gov.au/sore-throat
Mayo Clinic: www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sore-throat/symptoms-causes/syc-20351635
MyDr.com.au: mydr.com.au/respiratory-health/sore-throat-what-you-need-to-know/
Disclaimer: The information provided is a guide only, is current at time of publishing, and is not intended to replace the advice of your pharmacist or doctor.
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