Sore Throat
Alternate Names : Pharyngitis
What are the treatments for the condition?
A sore throat caused by a virus is treated only to relieve symptoms.
Antibiotics do not have any effect on viruses. A warm salt-water gargle and
throat lozenges can help reduce pain and inflammation. Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen can
be used to treat pain and fever. Children under 12 with a suspected viral
infection should never be given aspirin, because of the risk of a complication
known as Reye's syndrome. The person
should drink plenty of liquids.
A sore throat caused by bacteria is treated with antibiotics. The full course
of antibiotics should be taken, even if the symptoms improve before the
medication is gone.
A chronic sore throat is treated by eliminating the cause of the inflammation.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Antibiotics may cause stomach upset,
diarrhea, or an allergic
reaction.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Sore throats usually clear up within a few days.
How is the condition monitored?
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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