Throat infections are usually caused by a virus however, they can be caused by bacteria such as streptococcal bacteria (strep throat). Majority of the time throat infections are caused by a virus. A common cold is usually the cause of a sore throat. A normal throat infection only involves some slight pain in your throat followed by scratchiness or irritation of the throat that often causes pain when you swallow.

Usually, no specific medical treatment is needed for your sore throat. Your GP may not prescribe you antibiotics for the infection as isn’t a cause for concern. Some symptoms of a throat infection can vary depending on the cause of the infection. Some signs and symptoms can include:

• A fever
• Pain when swallowing
• Red or swollen tonsils
• Muffled voice
• Cough
• Runny nose
• headaches

On the other hand, there is another type of throat infection that is not very common, this is strep throat. This infection will require a treatment of antibiotics to prevent the infection from worsening. As long as you complete your antibiotic treatment within three to seven days, you should be able to get rid of strep throat. The duration of your strep throat infection can increase if it’s not treated with antibiotics.

A common sore throat/strep throat could have similar symptoms, in most cases the infection will go away on its own. To help soothe your throat infection make sure you:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Eat soft foods
• If you smoke avoid it until you recover
• Suck on ice cubes or ice lollies
• Get plenty of rest

In the case where your symptoms persist or worsen or if you have a high fever that lasts more than two days, you should visit your local GP.

Swinton pharmacy near Manchester can provide you with the medication you need to relieve the infections pain and discomfort. Please book an appointment with us today if you have any of the symptoms listed above so that we can help relieve the pain that your sore throat is causing.