Sore Throat

£0.00

  • Scan bar code for pre-screening consultation
  • Free NHS funded service
  • Complete the online consultation followed by video call from the convenience of your home.
  • Free delivery of medication delivered to your home.
  • Request in confidence from UK Registered Pharmacy

This service is only suitable for adults and children aged 5 years and over.

This service is NOT suitable  pregnant individuals under 16 years.

Please see your own GP if you do not fit the criteria.

Discreet Packaging

UK Based

  • Sore throat

    Sore throats are very common and usually nothing to worry about. They normally get better by themselves within 7-8 days .

    How to treat a sore throat yourself

    To help soothe a sore throat and shorten how long it lasts, you can:

    • gargle with warm, salty water (children should not try this)
    • drink plenty of water
    • eat cool or soft foods
    • avoid smoking or smoky places
    • suck ice cubes, ice lollies or hard sweets – but do not give young children anything small and hard to suck because of the risk of choking
    • rest
  • How to look after yourself and your family

    • Have plenty of rest.
    •  Drink enough fluids to avoid feeling thirsty.
    •  Ask your local pharmacist to recommend medicines to help your symptoms or pain (or both).
    •  Fever is a sign the body is fighting the infection and usually gets better by itself in most cases. You can use paracetamol if you or your child are uncomfortable as a result of a fever.
    •   Use a tissue and wash your hands with soap to help prevent spread of your infection to your family, friends and others you meet.
  • When to get help

    If you or your child has any of these symptoms, are getting worse or are sicker than you would expect (even if your/their temperature falls), trust your instincts and seek medical advice urgently from NHS 111 or your GP. If a child under the age of 5 has any of symptoms 1–3 go to A&E immediately or call 999.

    • If your skin is very cold or has a strange colour, or you develop an unusual rash.
    • If you have new feelings of confusion, or drowsiness, or have slurred speech.
    • If you have difficulty breathing. Signs that suggest breathing problems can be: breathing quickly, turning blue around the lips and the skin below the mouth, skin between or above the ribs getting sucked or pulled in with every breath
    • If you develop a severe headache and are sick.
    • If you develop chest pain.
    • If you have difficulty swallowing or are drooling.
    • If you cough up blood.
    • If you are passing little or no urine.
    • If you are feeling a lot worse.

     

    Less serious signs that can usually wait until the next available medical appointment:

    • If you are not starting to improve a little by the time given in ‘Most are better by’.
    • Children with middle-ear infection: if fluid is coming out of their ears or they have new deafness.
    • Mild side effects such as diarrhoea: seek medical attention if you are concerned.

     

    • Colds, most coughs, sinusitis, ear infections, sore throats, and other infections often get better without antibiotics, as your body can usually fight these infections on its own.
    • Taking any antibiotics makes bacteria that live inside your body more resistant. This means that antibiotics may not work when you really need them.
    • Antibiotics can cause side effects such as rashes, thrush, stomach pains, diarrhoea, reactions to sunlight, other symptoms; or being sick if you drink alcohol with the antibiotic metronidazole.
    • Find out more about how you can make better use of antibiotics and help keep this vital treatment effective by visiting  www.nhs.uk/keepantibioticsworking
  • Symptoms of a Sore Throat

    Common symptoms include:

    • Pain or a scratchy sensation in the throat
    • Difficulty swallowing
    • Redness in the back of the throat
    • Swollen glands in the neck
    • Hoarseness or loss of voice
    • Fever and chills (often associated with infections)

    Causes and Risk Factors

    Sore throats can be caused by:

    • Viral infections, such as the common cold or flu
    • Bacterial infections, like strep throat
    • Allergies to pollen, dust, or pet dander
    • Dry air, especially during winter
    • Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
    • Exposure to smoke, chemicals, or other irritants
  • Diagnosis and Treatment Options

    Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and, if necessary, a throat swab to test for strep throat. Treatment depends on the cause and may include:

    Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate sore throat pain.
    Antibiotics: Prescribed for bacterial infections like strep throat to prevent complications.
    Throat Soothing Remedies: Lozenges, throat sprays, and warm saltwater gargles can provide temporary relief.
    Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids helps keep the throat moist and reduces discomfort.
    Rest: Adequate rest supports the body’s immune response.

  • Pharmacy First Service for Sore Throat

    The Pharmacy First service allows you to access expert advice and treatment for your sore throat without needing a GP appointment. At My Pharmacy, our expert pharmacists can assess your symptoms, recommend appropriate remedies, and provide guidance on when further medical attention may be necessary.

  • Prevention Tips

    To reduce the risk of sore throats:

    • Practise good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, to prevent the spread of infections.
    • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
    • Manage allergies with appropriate medications and by reducing exposure to allergens.
    • Use a humidifier to add moisture to indoor air.
    • Avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke.

    When to See a Doctor

    Seek medical attention if your sore throat is severe, persists for more than a week, or is accompanied by high fever, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms. It’s important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.

  • Expert Sore Throat Care with Pharmacy First Service

    At My Pharmacy, we are committed to delivering superior sore throat treatments and comprehensive health information through the Pharmacy First service. Our team of professionals offers personalised advice and tailored care, ensuring you receive the most effective solutions for your sore throat without the need for a GP appointment.