Some people think that a sore throat is related to throat inflammation, so they look for "anti-inflammatory medication" to take, not realizing that "anti-inflammatory medication" actually refers to antibiotics, which are only effective for treating bacterial infections. They are not helpful for inflammation caused by other reasons. Overusing antibiotics not only wastes resources but can also harm the body in the long run, such as promoting antibiotic resistance, causing allergic reactions, and leading to various complications.

Common Causes of Sore Throat

1. Sore Throat Accompanied by Fever

          - Viral throat infection/cold: Patients will have a fever and mild sore throat. Upon examination, the throat shows no swollen tonsils and no signs of inflammation (i.e., no redness). In cases of a cold, sore throat may occur in the early days, and as nasal symptoms develop, the sore throat often resolves on its own.

          - Bacterial tonsillitis: Patients will have a high fever, severe sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. Examination reveals swollen tonsils that are bright red and may have pus spots on them.

2. Sore Throat Without Fever

          - Allergies: Patients will experience mild sore throat, often accompanied by itchy throat, itchy nose, sneezing, and clear nasal discharge when exposed to allergens such as dust, pollen, or cold air. Symptoms may be intermittent and chronic.

          - Irritation: Patients will have mild sore throat when exposed to irritants such as smoking or drinking alcohol. Symptoms will gradually improve once these irritants are avoided.

          - Canker sores (aphthous ulcers): When they occur in the throat, patients will experience significant pain, making it difficult to swallow and speak. Patients will not feel pain throughout the throat but can pinpoint the exact location of the pain. The pain is usually most intense in the first 3-4 days and gradually lessens, resolving on its own within 7-10 days.

          - Acid reflux: Commonly found in middle-aged individuals (though it can occur in younger people), patients will experience mild sore throat upon waking in the morning, possibly accompanied by hoarseness or coughing. Symptoms usually improve later in the day and may persist daily for months or until treated. Some may also experience pain in the epigastric area after eating.

Self-Care for Sore Throat Symptoms

1. See a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

          - High fever and severe sore throat

          - Yellow or green nasal discharge or phlegm

          - Sore throat lasting more than a week

          - A hard lump felt on the side of the neck

2. If you do not have the symptoms mentioned in point 1, you should take the following initial care:

          - Avoid alcohol and smoking

          - If you have clear nasal discharge or allergy symptoms, take an antihistamine like chlorpheniramine

          - If you have a fever or severe sore throat, take paracetamol, 1-2 tablets every 6 hours as needed

          - Gargle with salt water by mixing 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water, 2-3 times a day

          - If symptoms do not improve within 4 days, you should see a doctor.


Thank you for the information from www.thaihealth.or.th