Sore Throat

Possible Symptoms:

• Sore throat
• Pain on swallowing
• Fever
• Swollen neck glands
• Hoarse voice or laryngitis
• Red throat or pus on tonsils

Most sore throats are part of a viral infection also causing a cough or cold. These viral infections cannot be cured with antibiotics. If you develop severe pain, high fever, a rash, or have a lot of difficulty swallowing, you should see a nurse/doctor. In most cases your sore throat will get better in 1 week or less. This flowchart will help you decide if you should see your nurse/doctor about your sore throat. The antibiotics do not help the pain immediately. Nighttime visits to the emergency/health centre for antibiotics are usually unnecessary. Use the home suggestions for some early relief of the pain.

Please answer the following questions if you're suffering from a sore throat and think you may need medical care.

Questions

Do you have a temperature greater than 39.5C (103F) Rectal or 39C (102F) Oral?

or

Are you having a lot of difficulty with swallowing or breathing?

or

Do you have a new skin rash?

or

Do you have a severe sore throat alone without the symptoms of a runny nose, cough or cold?