As we move into the colder months, you may be starting to come down with a dreaded sore throat. Often, it can be difficult to determine the source of your discomfort, and what you can do to treat it. That’s why we have compiled this guide, to help you spot your symptoms and treat your sore throat in Neath with our Common Ailments Service.
What are the symptoms of a sore throat?
According to the NHS, sore throats are incredibly common; they are normally nothing to worry about.
Symptoms tend to be as follows:
– A painful throat, especially when you swallow
– Swollen neck glands
– Bad breath
– A mild cough
– Redness in the back of your mouth
– A dry, scratchy throat
What causes a sore throat?
Generally, a sore throat is caused by viruses, such as cold or flu, or from smoking.
However, they can also be caused by conditions such as:
– Laryngitis
– Glandular fever
– Strep throat
– Tonsillitis
When should I see a GP?
More often than not, a sore throat is nothing to worry about.
However, you should see a GP if:
– You have a weakened immune system (due to causes such as chemotherapy or diabetes)
– Your sore throat is accompanied by a very high temperature, or you feel hot and shivery
– You are worried about your sore throat symptoms
– You often get sore throats
– Your sore throat does not improve after a week
A more serious and long-lasting sore throat could be attributed to a bacterial infection like strep throat.
How can I treat my sore throat in Neath at home?
To help soothe your sore throat, you can try relief methods such as:
– Resting
– Sucking hard sweets, ice lollies or ice cubes
– Avoiding smoking or smokey areas
– Eating soft or cool foods
– Drinking plenty of water
– Gargling with warm salty water
How can we help you treat a sore throat in Neath?
If you are suffering from a sore throat, The Health Dispensary is here to help you. We can offer painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, as well as offering healthcare advice tailored to your symptoms. Similarly, we can even recommend medicated lozenges and anaesthetic sprays for fast, topical relief.
Our pharmacy is able to provide treatments for sore throats through the NHS Common Ailments scheme. The scheme allows us to offer over-the-counter treatments and diagnosis for 26 common ailments for free. You can find out more about the common ailments we can treat here:
You can have your appointment with us in person, via video or over the phone at your convenience. Following your appointment, you can even pick up your subsequent treatment from our 24/7 collection point; you can learn more and sign up here:
If you are suffering from a sore throat, why wait –
Book in for an appointment today to get back to feeling like yourself again!
Do you have a cold sore or a mouth ulcer?
Check out our latest blog post to help you spot your symptoms and get treatment:
