🤔💊 Got a sore throat? Before you reach for those antibiotics, find out if they’re really necessary! Discover the truth behind sore throats and when to seek help. #HealthTips #SoreThroat #Antibiotics

What Causes Sore Throat?

Sore throat is usually caused by an infection. Two types of germs can cause it: viruses and bacteria (strep throat).

Is Your Sore Throat Caused By A Virus Or Bacteria?

It is hard to tell the difference. But there are some clues to look for.

People who have a sore throat caused by a virus usually have other symptoms, such as:

• Stuffy or runny nose
• Itchy or red eyes
• Cough

People who have strep throat do not usually have a cough, runny nose, or itchy or red eyes. They might have:

• Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches
• Fever (temperature higher than 38°C)
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

It is important to be evaluated by your doctor to assess if you have swollen tonsils or lymph nodes in your neck.

There is a scoring system that can help your doctor assess if your infection is caused by a virus or bacteria.

Your doctor can also take a sample from the back of your throat and test it for the bacteria that cause strep throat.

Do You Need Antibiotics?

If you have an infection caused by a virus, you do not need antibiotics.

If you have strep throat, you should get antibiotics. Antibiotics can help reduce your symptoms and keep the infection from spreading to other people as easily.

Antibiotics can also prevent other problems that strep throat can sometimes cause. These can happen if:

• The body reacts to the infection – This can cause symptoms like skin rash, joint pain, and even organ damage. In some cases, this can be serious.
• The bacteria spread to nearby areas – For example, this could cause an ear, sinus, or skin infection. It could also cause swelling or abscesses (pockets of pus) in the throat.

You will probably be prescribed antibiotics to take for 10 days. It’s important to take all the antibiotics, even if you start to feel better.

What Can You Do To Feel Better?

To relieve the pain of sore throat, you can:

• Take over-the-counter pain medicine
• Use medicated sore throat lozenges or sprays
• Suck on hard candies, ice chips, or ice pops.
• Gargle with salt water – This can sometimes help with throat pain.
• Use a cool mist humidifier – This adds moisture to the air. Some people find that this helps.
• Avoid smoking or being around people who are smoking – Smoke can make throat pain worse.

When Should You Go To The Hospital?

Call an ambulance or go to the emergency department if you:

• Have trouble breathing
• Are drooling because you cannot swallow your saliva
• Have swelling of your neck or tongue
• Cannot move your neck, or have trouble opening your mouth

Conclusion

Antibiotics are not always the answer for sore throats. Knowing when they’re necessary can save you from unnecessary side effects and contribute to better overall public health. If in doubt, consult with your doctor who can guide you on the best course of action.

References:

• https://www.uptodate.com/contents/evaluation-of-acute-pharyngitis-in-adults?search=pharyngitis&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=1
• https://www.uptodate.com/contents/symptomatic-treatment-of-acute-pharyngitis-in-adults?search=pharyngitis&source=search_result&selectedTitle=2~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=2
• https://www.uptodate.com/contents/treatment-and-prevention-of-streptococcal-pharyngitis-in-adults-and-children?search=pharyngitis&source=search_result&selectedTitle=7~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=5

Related: Should I Get Antibiotics for the Common Cold?