How can you tell if your sore throat is from a cold, strep, or tonsillitis. What are the key differences in symptoms and treatment for these conditions. When should you see a doctor for a sore throat.

Understanding the Common Cold and Its Initial Symptoms

A sore throat is often the harbinger of a common cold, but how does it develop and what other symptoms typically follow? The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract. It usually begins with a scratchy, irritated feeling in the throat that can quickly progress to more pronounced discomfort.

As the cold develops, you may experience:

• Runny nose with clear, watery discharge
• Sneezing
• Fatigue
• Cough (usually mild at first)

Is a fever common with a cold? Typically, a cold does not cause a significant fever. If you develop a high temperature, it may indicate a flu or bacterial infection rather than a simple cold.

The Progression of Cold Symptoms

How do cold symptoms evolve over time? In the initial days, you’ll likely experience a watery nasal discharge. As the cold progresses, this discharge often becomes thicker and darker. A mild cough may develop and persist for up to two weeks after the onset of other symptoms.

When do cold symptoms usually appear and how long do they last? Symptoms typically manifest 1-3 days after exposure to the virus and can last for about 3-7 days. However, some congestion may linger for a week or more.

Differentiating Between Cold and Allergy Symptoms

Can cold symptoms be mistaken for allergies? While there are similarities, there are key differences that can help you distinguish between the two.

Characteristics of cold symptoms:

• Develop quickly
• Last for 1-2 weeks
• Are caused by viruses

Characteristics of allergy symptoms:

• Can persist for weeks or months
• Are caused by an overactive immune system response to allergens
• Often include itchy eyes and throat

How do allergies affect the body differently from a cold? Allergies trigger the release of histamine, causing nasal passages to swell and leading to symptoms like runny nose, coughing, and sneezing. Unlike colds, allergies are not contagious but may have a genetic component.

Identifying Flu Symptoms vs. Cold Symptoms

How can you tell if you have the flu rather than a cold? While both conditions share some symptoms, there are distinct differences:

• Fever: Flu often causes a temperature above 101°F (38.3°C), while colds rarely do
• Muscle aches and headaches: More common and severe with flu
• Onset: Flu symptoms tend to come on more suddenly and severely

Why is it important to differentiate between flu and cold? Identifying flu early can lead to more appropriate treatment and potentially reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Cold Symptoms

While colds are generally not dangerous for most people, certain symptoms or circumstances warrant medical attention. When should you consult a doctor for cold symptoms?

• Severe symptoms that don’t improve
• Earache
• Sinus pain lasting more than a week
• Fever above 102°F (38.9°C)
• Persistent cough with mucus production for over a week
• Shortness of breath
• Symptoms lasting longer than two weeks

Are there specific concerns for infants and young children? For infants under 3 months, a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher requires immediate medical attention. For children under 2, a fever lasting more than a day, or more than 3 days in older children, should be evaluated by a doctor.

Understanding Strep Throat and Its Distinctiveness from Cold-Related Sore Throats

How does strep throat differ from a sore throat caused by a cold? Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus, while cold-related sore throats are viral in nature. This distinction is crucial for proper treatment.

Key Differences in Symptoms

What symptoms set strep throat apart from a cold-related sore throat?

• Sudden onset of severe sore throat
• High fever (typically above 101°F or 38.3°C)
• Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck
• White or yellow spots on the tonsils
• Absence of cough (which is common in colds)

Is strep throat more serious than a cold-related sore throat? Yes, strep throat can lead to complications if left untreated, including rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation. Therefore, proper diagnosis and treatment are essential.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Strep Throat

How is strep throat diagnosed? A rapid strep test or throat culture can confirm the presence of streptococcal bacteria. These tests involve swabbing the throat and analyzing the sample.

What is the standard treatment for strep throat? Antibiotics, typically penicillin or amoxicillin, are prescribed to eliminate the bacterial infection. It’s crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve.

What should you do if strep throat symptoms persist despite treatment? If symptoms don’t improve within 48 hours of starting antibiotics, or if they worsen, consult your healthcare provider. This could indicate antibiotic resistance or a different underlying condition.

Tonsillitis: Another Cause of Severe Sore Throat

What is tonsillitis and how does it differ from a cold-related sore throat? Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils that can be caused by either viruses or bacteria. It often results in more severe symptoms than a typical cold-related sore throat.

Identifying Tonsillitis Symptoms

What are the distinctive symptoms of tonsillitis?

• Severe sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Swollen, red tonsils (often with white or yellow patches)
• Fever
• Bad breath
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

How can you distinguish tonsillitis from strep throat? While symptoms can be similar, tonsillitis may also be accompanied by a cough, hoarseness, and sometimes stomach pain, which are less common in strep throat.

Treatment Approaches for Tonsillitis

How is tonsillitis treated? The treatment depends on whether the cause is viral or bacterial:

• Viral tonsillitis: Managed with supportive care, including rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers
• Bacterial tonsillitis: Treated with antibiotics, similar to strep throat

In cases of recurrent or chronic tonsillitis, surgical removal of the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may be recommended. This decision is made based on the frequency and severity of episodes, as well as their impact on quality of life.

Managing Sore Throat Symptoms at Home

Regardless of the cause, there are several home remedies and over-the-counter treatments that can help alleviate sore throat discomfort. What are some effective ways to manage sore throat symptoms?

• Gargle with warm salt water
• Use throat lozenges or hard candies
• Drink warm liquids (e.g., herbal tea with honey)
• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Are there any natural remedies that can help soothe a sore throat? Some people find relief with natural remedies such as:

• Honey (known for its antibacterial properties)
• Slippery elm bark (which forms a soothing coat over mucous membranes)
• Chamomile tea (for its anti-inflammatory effects)

It’s important to note that while these remedies can provide symptomatic relief, they do not treat the underlying cause of the sore throat. If symptoms persist or worsen, medical attention should be sought.

Preventing the Spread of Cold, Strep, and Tonsillitis

Given that colds, strep throat, and tonsillitis can be highly contagious, what measures can be taken to prevent their spread? Implementing good hygiene practices is crucial:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoid touching your face, especially your mouth and nose
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
• Avoid sharing personal items like utensils or towels
• Stay home when you’re sick to avoid infecting others

How long are these conditions contagious? The contagious period can vary:

• Colds: Most contagious during the first 3 days of symptoms, but can spread for up to a week
• Strep throat: Typically contagious until 24 hours after starting antibiotics
• Viral tonsillitis: Contagious as long as symptoms persist

Can strengthening your immune system help prevent these illnesses? While a strong immune system can’t guarantee prevention, it can help your body fight off infections more effectively. Strategies to boost immunity include:

• Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Getting adequate sleep
• Exercising regularly
• Managing stress
• Staying hydrated

The Role of Antibiotics in Treating Sore Throats

When are antibiotics necessary for treating a sore throat? Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections, such as strep throat or bacterial tonsillitis. They are not useful for viral infections, including the common cold.

Why is it important to use antibiotics judiciously? Overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, making future infections more difficult to treat. Additionally, antibiotics can cause side effects and disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your body.

Potential Risks of Antibiotic Use

What are some potential side effects of antibiotics?

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Yeast infections
• Allergic reactions (in some cases)

How can you minimize the risks associated with antibiotic use? Always take antibiotics exactly as prescribed, complete the full course even if you feel better, and never use leftover antibiotics or share them with others.

Long-Term Health Implications of Recurrent Sore Throats

Can frequent sore throats have long-term health consequences? Recurrent sore throats, particularly those caused by strep infections, can lead to complications if left untreated. These may include:

• Rheumatic fever (affecting the heart, joints, and nervous system)
• Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (kidney inflammation)
• Scarlet fever
• Peritonsillar abscess (collection of pus behind the tonsils)

When should recurrent sore throats be evaluated by a specialist? If you experience frequent sore throats (more than 7 episodes in one year, 5 episodes per year for two consecutive years, or 3 episodes per year for three consecutive years), it’s advisable to consult an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist).

Tonsillectomy: A Potential Solution for Chronic Tonsillitis

What factors are considered when deciding on a tonsillectomy? The decision to remove tonsils is based on several factors:

• Frequency and severity of tonsillitis episodes
• Impact on quality of life (missed school or work days)
• Response to antibiotic treatment
• Presence of complications (such as sleep apnea)

What are the potential benefits and risks of tonsillectomy? While tonsillectomy can significantly reduce the occurrence of throat infections in some individuals, it is a surgical procedure that carries risks such as bleeding, infection, and reactions to anesthesia. The decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, weighing the potential benefits against the risks.

The Impact of Lifestyle Factors on Throat Health

How do lifestyle choices affect susceptibility to sore throats and related conditions? Several factors can influence your throat health and your body’s ability to fight off infections:

• Smoking: Irritates the throat and weakens the immune system
• Alcohol consumption: Can dehydrate the body and irritate the throat
• Diet: A balanced diet supports immune function
• Sleep: Adequate rest is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system
• Stress: Chronic stress can weaken immune defenses

What dietary changes can support throat health? Incorporating the following into your diet may help:

• Vitamin C-rich foods (citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens)
• Zinc-containing foods (lean meats, nuts, seeds)
• Probiotic-rich foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) to support overall immune function
• Honey, known for its antibacterial and soothing properties

How can you create an environment that promotes throat health? Consider these strategies:

• Use a humidifier to prevent dry air from irritating your throat
• Avoid exposure to pollutants and irritants
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Practice good oral hygiene to reduce bacteria in the mouth and throat

The Role of Vaccines in Preventing Throat Infections

While there’s no vaccine for the common cold, certain vaccinations can help prevent some throat infections. Which vaccines are relevant to throat health?

• Influenza vaccine: Can prevent flu-related sore throats
• Pneumococcal vaccine: Protects against certain bacterial infections that can affect the throat
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine: Prevents infections that can lead to epiglottitis, a serious throat condition

How effective are these vaccines in preventing throat infections? While no vaccine is 100% effective, they significantly reduce the risk of infection and can lessen the severity of symptoms if infection does occur.

Sore Throat, Cough, and More

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• The Start of a Cold
• Is It Allergies Instead of a Cold?
• Is It the Flu?
• When to Call the Doctor About Cold Symptoms

Your nose is running, you’ve got a cough, and your throat is raw. Is it a cold, allergies, or the flu?

There are similarities to all three, but a few telltale signs can help you tell them apart.

It usually begins with a sore throat, and before you know it, you’ve also got these symptoms:

• Runny nose (clear and watery)
• Sneezing
• Fatigue
• Cough

You usually don’t get a fever with a cold. If you do, it may be a sign you’ve got the flu or an infection with a bacteria.

For the first few days that you’re sick, your runny nose will be watery, but it turns thicker and darker after that. You may also get a mild cough that can last into the second week of your cold.

Since a cold can trigger an asthma attack, people with asthma should check with your doctor to see if you need to change your regular treatment plan.

If you cough up thick or dark mucus or you get a fever, you may have an infection with a bacteria. See your doctor to find out how to treat it. Also see them if your cough doesn’t get better after a few weeks.

Your symptoms usually start between 1 and 3 days after you get infected with a cold virus. They typically last for about 3 to 7 days. By then the worst is over, but you may feel stuffed up for a week or more.

You’re most contagious during the first 3 days that you’re sick, but it’s still possible to spread it during the first week.

Sometimes you might mistake cold symptoms for hay fever. If they begin quickly and are over in 1 to 2 weeks, chances are it’s not an allergy.

Allergies are caused by an overactive immune system, your defense against germs. Your body overreacts to things like dust or pollen. It then releases chemicals like histamine. This causes the passageways in your nose to swell, leading to a runny nose, coughing, and sneezing.

Hay fever isn’t contagious, but some people may inherit a tendency to get it.

For in-depth information, see WebMD’s “Common Cold or Allergies?”

Take your temperature. A mild case of the flu often has symptoms like a cold, but a cold rarely raises your temperature above 101 degrees F.

Besides a fever, the flu often gives you muscle aches and a headache.

For in-depth information, see WebMD’s “Flu or Cold Symptoms?”

Except in newborns, colds aren’t dangerous. The symptoms usually go away without any special treatment. But when you’re sick it can wear down your body’s resistance, making you more open to an infection by a bacteria.

See your doctor if your cold symptoms are severe and you aren’t getting better. They’ll likely check your throat and ears, and listen to your lungs. They may take a throat culture by brushing your throat with a long cotton-tipped swab. This will show whether you have an infection that needs treatment with antibiotics.

Call your doctor if you have:

• An earache
• Pain around the nose and eyes (sinuses) for more than a week
• Fever above 102 degrees F. If your child is younger than 3 months and has a temperature of 100.4 degrees F or higher, call your doctor right away.
• Fever that lasts more than a day in a child under 2, or more than 3 days in a child age 2 or older
• Cough up mucus for more than a week
• Shortness of breath
• Worsening symptoms
• Symptoms that last longer than 2 weeks
• Trouble swallowing.
• A bad sore throat with fever (may indicate strep infection)
• Pain or pressure in the chest or belly
• A stiff neck or sensitivity to bright lights

Also see your doctor if:

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding and get a cold
• Your newborn or infant gets symptoms
• Your cold worsens after the third day

Top Picks

Sore Throat? Find Out if It’s a Cold, Strep Throat, or Tonsillitis

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What’s the Difference Between a Cold, Strep Throat, and Tonsillitis?
• Is a Sore Throat With a Cold Caused by Viruses or Bacteria?
• Along With a Sore Throat, What are Other Cold Symptoms?
• How Are Sore Throats With Colds Treated?
• Can Medications Relieve Symptoms of a Sore Throat With a Cold?
• How Is Strep Throat Different From a Sore Throat With a Cold?
• Is Strep Throat More Serious Than a Sore Throat With a Cold?
• Are Strep Throat Symptoms Different From a Sore Throat With a Cold?
• Do I Need to See My Doctor if I Think I Have Strep Throat?
• What Is a Strep Test for a Sore Throat?
• What Is the Treatment for Strep Throat?
• What If My Strep Throat Isn’t Getting Better?
• How Is Tonsillitis Different From a Sore Throat With a Cold?
• How Are Tonsillitis Symptoms Different From Symptoms of a Sore Throat With a Cold?
• How Is a Sore Throat From Tonsillitis Treated?
• More

Wonder if your painful sore throat is from a cold, strep throat, or tonsillitis? Here’s help with how to tell.

A sore throat is often the first sign of a cold. However, a sore throat from a cold often gets better or goes away after the first day or two. Other cold symptoms such as a runny nose and congestion may follow the sore throat.

Strep throat, which is an infection due to streptococcus bacteria, is another cause of sore throats and tonsillitis. With strep throat, the sore throat is often more severe and persists.

Tonsillitis is a painful inflammation or infection of the tonsils, the tissue masses located at the back of the throat.

Sore throats can be caused by viruses or bacteria. The most common causes of sore throats are viruses. Viral sore throats are often accompanied by other cold symptoms that may include a runny nose, cough, red or watery eyes, and sneezing. Other causes of sore throat include smoking, pollution or irritants in the air, allergies, and dry air.

In addition to a sore throat, other common cold symptoms include:

• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Cough
• Mild headache
• Mild body aches
• Fever

Although there is no cure for a sore throat caused by a cold virus, there are ways to help you feel more comfortable. Drinking warm liquids, gargling with warm salt water, sucking on ice chips, or taking an over-the-counter medicine may relieve symptoms of pain or fever. When you are sick with a cold, it is also important to get enough rest, eat a healthy diet, and drink plenty of fluids.

Over-the-counter cold medications may relieve cold and sore throat symptoms. However, the benefits of these drugs are minimal. Some cold medications include:

• Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen and naproxen, to relieve the aches and pains of a cold and sore throat. (Aspirin should not be given to children because of its link to Reye’s syndrome, a disorder that can cause brain damage and death.)
• Sore throat sprays and lozenges to soothe your throat and numb the throat pain temporarily. (Lozenges should not be given to young children.)
• Decongestant nasal sprays to relieve a sore throat caused by postnasal drip — nasal drainage that runs down your throat. (Be sure to stop using nasal decongestant sprays after three days, or you may have an increase in congestion when you stop them. )

Antibiotics should not be used to treat a cold virus and sore throat. Antibiotics are effective only against bacteria. They will not work on sore throats associated with colds, which are caused by viruses.

Strep throat is caused by an infection of streptococcus bacteria. Strep throat spreads by having contact with an infected person’s saliva or nasal secretions. Although strep throat is more common in children ages 5 to 15, it also occurs in adults. To diagnose strep throat, your doctor can check a rapid strep test or send a throat swab to the lab for a culture. In some cases, they may be able to diagnose strep based on your reported symptoms and other signs, such as white spots in the throat area, fever, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

Strep throat can cause more serious illnesses, such as rheumatic fever, a disease that may harm the heart valves. That’s why it’s important to get proper medical treatment. With proper treatment, strep throat is usually cured within 10 days.

Strep throat symptoms are usually more severe than symptoms of a sore throat with a cold and may include the following:

• Sudden sore throat
• Loss of appetite
• Painful swallowing
• Red tonsils with white spots
• Fever

The symptoms of a cold and strep throat can be very similar. If you think you have symptoms of strep throat, visit your healthcare provider. Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and do a physical exam, and you may be given a strep test.

A rapid strep test checks for streptococcus bacteria infection in the throat. The test is painless and takes very little time. The tip of a cotton swab is used to wipe the back of the throat. The swab is then tested right away. If the strep test is positive, you have strep throat. If the strep test is negative, you likely do not have strep throat. However, if there are strong signs of strep throat, your healthcare provider can do a different throat swab test that is sent to the lab to see if strep bacteria can be grown (cultured) from it. A throat culture takes a couple of days for results.

Strep throat is treated using antibiotics, which kill the bacteria causing the infection. Antibiotics are often taken as pills or given as a shot. Penicillin and amoxicillin are common antibiotics used to treat strep throat. Other antibiotics are prescribed for people who are allergic to penicillin.

Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for antibiotic use. Take all of the medication, even if you feel better. You should feel better within a day or two. A person with strep throat should stay home until 24 hours after starting the antibiotic.

If your strep throat is not getting better, let your healthcare provider know right away. Do not stop taking your prescribed medicine unless your health care provider tells you to. Call your healthcare provider if these symptoms occur:

• Fever one or two days after feeling better
• Nausea or vomiting
• Earache
• Headache
• Neck stiffness
• Skin rash
• Cough
• Swollen glands
• Painful joints
• Shortness of breath
• Dark urine, rash, or chest pain (may occur three to four weeks later)

Sometimes, a sore throat is caused by tonsillitis, an inflammation of the tonsils. Tonsillitis can be caused by viruses or bacteria. While the tonsils’ job is to help fight infection, the tonsils can also become infected. When they do, the result is tonsillitis and a very painful sore throat.

In addition to a sore throat, a cold usually causes nasal symptoms, such as runny nose or congestion. With tonsillitis, your tonsils become swollen and may have telltale white or yellow spots. Other symptoms with tonsillitis include the following:

• Bad breath
• Fever
• Voice changes because of swelling
• Painful swallowing
• Swollen lymph glands in neck

If the tonsillitis infection is bacterial like strep throat, then antibiotics are given. If the tonsillitis infection is viral, antibiotics will not help. The virus must run its course for the sore throat to resolve. For either type of throat infection, the following treatment measures may help:

• Getting plenty of rest
• Drinking lots of fluid
• Eating smooth, soothing foods like gelatin, ice cream, shakes, frozen desserts, and soup
• Avoiding crunchy or spicy foods
• Using a vaporizer
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, naproxen, or ibuprofen. Children should not take aspirin.

If the tonsillitis infections occur repeatedly, or if the tonsils are interfering with sleep and breathing, the doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy, which is the surgical removal of the tonsils.

What would you like to learn about next?

• Tonsillitis Treatment
• Strep Throat Treatment
• Common Cold Treatment

Top Picks

how to get rid of a sore throat with colds and flu?

03/02/2022

7-9 minutes

4428

Contents

• Causes of sore throat
• What diseases cause a sore throat?
• Why does my throat hurt when I have a cold and flu?
• How to treat diseases?
• Coldrex: complex treatment for colds, flu and SARS
• When should I make an appointment with a doctor?

Show all

One of the most common symptoms of flu and colds is a sore throat. It can manifest itself in different ways: from a slight “itch” to severe pain when swallowing.

Next, you will find out why such a problem arises, how to quickly get rid of a sore throat with influenza and SARS.

Causes of sore throat

Dryness, itching, burning, discomfort when swallowing, dry cough – these sensations are noted by patients who make an appointment with a doctor with complaints of a sore throat. The most common causes of this ailment are acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI). However, this symptom is not always the result of a cold and flu and is provoked by other factors that require additional diagnostics from an ENT or other specialist.

Sore throat caused by:

Local or general hypothermia.

Postnasal drip.

Infectious and inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract.

Rehabilitation after operations in the oropharynx and nasopharynx.

Exacerbation of chronic inflammatory diseases of the pharynx, including tonsillitis and pharyngitis.

Irritation of the upper respiratory tract from smoking, hot food, straining of the vocal cords, etc.

Mechanical damage to the mucous membrane of the pharynx.

Prolonged exposure to gassy or dusty air.

Prolonged mouth breathing caused by various problems in the nasal cavity.

Irritation by acidic contents in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

What diseases cause a sore throat¹?

Angina

During a sore throat, patients have a severe sore throat, swallowing food is difficult, there is plaque on the tonsils, the temperature rises and the lymph nodes increase. Even in a mild form, it has dangerous consequences for the child and adult body and can lead to problems with the joints, kidneys and heart. That is why doctors do not recommend carrying her “on her feet” and advise her to take a responsible approach to treatment³.

SARS

As a rule, acute respiratory viral infections begin with a runny nose and cough, and pain in the throat appears later. At the initial medical examination, it is difficult for a doctor to determine the virus causing the infection. Thus, the influenza virus provokes from 5 to 15% of cases of all acute respiratory viral infections, and rhinoviruses are in the first place in the etiology of viral infections of the upper respiratory tract, they account for 30–50%¹.

Laryngitis

Dryness, itching, a loud barking cough, loss of voice or hoarseness are characteristic signs of laryngitis. It is especially dangerous for children, since it is in them that laryngeal edema caused by inflammation can lead to suffocation. In this regard, at the first manifestations of laryngitis in a child, it is recommended to contact a pediatrician and consult an ENT to select an effective treatment.

Chronic pharyngitis

It is characterized by perspiration and the absence of severe pain, coughing, redness of the tissues of the pharynx are possible.

Chronic tonsillitis

A person feels constant discomfort in the throat, he may have a slight temperature up to 37–37. 2 ° C and pain in the joints, weakness, sweating are observed.

Infectious mononucleosis

Accompanied by intense sore throat, fever, tonsillitis, enlargement of the cervical, occipital and possibly other groups of lymph nodes, liver and spleen. In general, at a doctor’s appointment, patients note a noticeable deterioration in well-being, loss of strength and lack of appetite.

Laryngopharyngeal reflux

With an exacerbation of the disease, a person has a severe sore throat, perspiration occurs, a feeling of a “lump” in the throat, swallowing is difficult. Also among the symptoms are frequent coughing, runny nose, bleeding gums, plaque on the tongue, an abundance of mucus in the middle and lower parts of the pharynx.

Peritonsillar abscess

Among the complaints to the doctor are intense sore throat, inability to swallow saliva and liquid. A paratonsillar abscess is characterized by purulent plaque on the palatine tonsils, asymmetry of the soft palate, and fever up to 38 °C.

Why does my throat hurt with a cold and flu?

Sometimes, during an illness, there is mild discomfort in the throat (itching, slight irritation), in other cases, severe pain that interferes with regular food intake. In the process of inflammation of the tonsils, redness and swelling occur. Among the causes of this condition are bacteria or a virus.

After direct contact with a sick person, pathogens can enter the respiratory mucosa by airborne droplets. They very quickly settle in the nasal cavity and larynx: in comfortable conditions, pathogens begin to multiply intensively and enter the bloodstream.

As a result, there are various symptoms that are familiar to everyone: fever, weakness, muscle pain, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat.

If the discomfort quickly turns into severe pain, it “passes” to the ears, the lymph nodes under the jaw increase – such symptoms indicate acute laryngitis, pharyngitis or tonsillitis.

At the same time, the rate of onset of the effect of treatment directly depends on the cause of the disease. Sometimes discomfort can be removed in just 1-2 days. At the same time, a sore throat caused by streptococcus is often treated for at least 10-14 days with the obligatory use of antibiotics.

Important! If the pain in your throat does not decrease within a few days, be sure to consult your doctor. The specialist will determine the exact cause of the disease and prescribe an individual treatment regimen.

How to treat diseases?

The key to effective treatment of any ailment is a correct diagnosis. Knowledge of the mechanisms of pain, its true source and the collection of a detailed history allow the doctor to choose the right medicine for each clinical case, eliminating not only the symptoms, but also the cause of the disease.

Today, the pharmacological market offers a huge variety of drugs for local and general therapy. Conventionally, they are divided into five groups⁴.

• Antibiotics – substances with antimicrobial activity. They do not act on viruses and do not have an analgesic effect, so antibacterial drugs are justified only for bacterial infections. With pain, about 2% of patients need antibiotics, and without the appointment of an ENT or a general practitioner, their use can aggravate the condition².

• Antiseptics – drugs that have a local antimicrobial effect, destroy viruses and fungi, but do not relieve pain.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs that affect the mechanisms of the onset and development of ailments. They suppress the process of inflammation and have an analgesic effect, helping to eliminate swelling and redness.
• Immunomodulators are natural or synthetic substances that have a positive effect on immunity. This class of drugs increases the production of lysozyme and interferon, immunoglobulin A in saliva, but does not relieve pain.
• Anesthetics – drugs that have an analgesic effect and are usually used in combination with antiseptics.

Most of the above drugs are available in the form of a spray, lozenges and solutions that make it possible to act on the mucous membrane of the pharynx.

In addition to drug treatment, therapy includes the following recommendations⁵:

• Warm plentiful drink.

• Rinse with warm herbal infusions.

• Warming procedures: hot foot baths, steam inhalations, dry warming neck bandage.

• Temporary exclusion from the diet of cold, hot and rough foods, carbonated drinks, smoking cessation and alcohol consumption.

Important! For influenza virus, topical treatment of the throat is considered an additional measure. In moderate and severe forms of the disease, complex treatment is carried out, including the use of antiviral drugs.

Coldrex: complex treatment for colds, flu and SARS

Coldrex is a comprehensive remedy for eliminating the symptoms of ARVI and influenza. A warm drink with a pleasant taste is suitable for adults and children over 6 years old. It reduces the symptoms of a cold, maintains a healthy fluid balance in the body and does not provoke drowsiness.

The combined formula helps to cope with general malaise, fever, runny nose, muscle pain and discomfort in the throat. Active ingredients in Coldrex:

• Paracetamol is often used at high temperatures. Such a component relieves various types of pain, including those provoked by intoxication – headache, muscle, joint. ¹
• Phenylephrine hydrochloride is able to reduce swelling in the nasopharynx and facilitate breathing.

• Vitamin C compensates for the increased need for vitamin C in “colds” and flu, especially in the initial stages of the disease.

Choose your Coldrex

A sore throat is a common symptom of a cold or flu. An integrated approach helps to relieve discomfort and other unpleasant symptoms, and return to the usual rhythm of life faster. Coldrex warm drink is able to cope with the main symptoms of SARS and contains an additional portion of vitamin C for strong immunity.

When should you make an appointment with a doctor?

Many people consider discomfort in the throat harmless and prefer to treat the disease on their own by contacting pharmacies for medicines. However, even mild inflammation of the oropharynx can lead to pharyngitis, tracheitis and other serious consequences.

Long-term discomfort is an absolute indication for clinical diagnosis. For parents, a cause for concern may be the manifestation of such symptoms as the child’s refusal to eat, drink, the appearance of noisy swallowing or coughing.

Moreover, it is important to remember that it is not always a sore throat due to viruses or bacteria, therefore, first of all, you should contact a general practitioner or pediatrician for an initial consultation. During the appointment, the doctor will conduct the necessary set of medical studies and refer for further consultation to the relevant specialists: an ENT specialist, a dentist, an endocrinologist or an ENT surgeon.

Examinations to be carried out by the doctor during the appointment¹:

• Streptotest for all acute conditions of the oropharynx.

• Cultural seeding from the palatine tonsils.

• Taking a general blood and urine test.

• Taking a biochemical blood test.

Instrumental and laboratory diagnostics, as well as taking a detailed history, allow the doctor to correctly identify the disease and determine whether it is infectious or non-infectious.

Tags

Symptoms

References

1. Angotoeva I.B. Differential diagnosis of sore throat // MS. 2014. No. 15.1.2023).
2. Angotoeva Irina Borisovna, Mushyan Irina Aleksandrovna PAIN IN THE THROAT AND ITS CAUSES // RO. 2019. No. 3 (100).
   URL: https://cyberlenink URL: https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/differentsialnaya-diagnostika-boley-v-gorle
3. Zakharova I. N., Korovina N. A., Ovsyannikova E. M. Sore throat // MS. 2013. No. 2-3.
   URL: https://cyberleninka. ru/article/n/bol-v-gorle

4. Maltseva Galina Semenovna Differentiated approach to the treatment of sore throat // Consilium Medicum. 2019. No. 11.
   URL: https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/differentsirovannyy-podhod-k-lecheniyu-boli-v-gorle

5. Yu.Yu. Orlova Modern etiopathogenetic therapy of acute pharyngitis // Remedium Privolzhye. 2015. No. 4 (134).
   URL: https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/sovremennaya-etiopatogeneticheskaya-terapiya-ostrogo-faringita

Useful information

Coldrex against colds

No one expects a cold “to visit”: it always comes unexpectedly and can easily disrupt your plans.

Learn more

Colds: signs, symptoms and treatment

The unpleasant symptoms of a cold are familiar to everyone: nasal congestion, “itchy” throat and feeling of weakness. They can easily spoil the mood and change important plans.

Learn more

Prevention of colds, flu and ARVI

Acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) or the common cold, as we used to call them, are the most common diseases in our country.

Learn more

What to do at the first sign of a cold

Traditionally, a cold is an acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI), which has a mild course, often associated with the general hypothermia of the body.

Learn more

Colds without fever

The onset of the cold season means the arrival of the season of colds.

Learn more

Influenza: signs, symptoms and treatment

Influenza is an acute respiratory illness that can affect the upper and lower respiratory tract.

Learn more

If you have questions

You can ask them via the feedback form

Do you have a sore throat – a cold, tonsillitis or tonsillitis?

Sore throat is a common symptom of the common cold (acute respiratory viral disease). However, a sore throat with a cold lasts one to two days and may go away without treatment. Frequent companions with a cold are a runny nose and nasal congestion.

Angina, a disease caused by the bacterium streptococcus, is also a common cause of a sore throat. With angina, the sore throat is intense, lasts longer and is accompanied by a number of general symptoms

Tonsillitis is a painful inflammation of the tonsils, which are located at the back of the throat. Also causes sore throat.

What causes a sore throat with a cold – bacteria or viruses?

Most often, a sore throat with a cold is caused by various viruses and may be accompanied by other symptoms of viral diseases – a runny nose, fever, cough, redness of the eyes.

How to treat a sore throat with a cold?

While there are no drugs that directly target the viruses that cause the common cold, there are treatments that can help people get better with a cold. Drinking plenty of warm liquids, saline gargles, and taking antipyretic drugs help reduce the symptoms of a cold.

Do medicines improve the symptoms of a sore throat with a cold?

Antipyretics relieve cold symptoms and sore throats. But do not exaggerate the effectiveness of these drugs

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen relieve a sore throat from a cold. There are many commercial preparations containing these substances. We remind you that aspirin should not be given to children, in order to avoid the development of Reye’s syndrome, which can cause brain damage and death .
  

• Various sprays with antiseptics and anesthetics reduce the intensity of sore throat.

• Vasoconstrictive nasal sprays and drops improve sore throat symptoms from a cold by reaching the back of the throat. It is not recommended to use them for more than 3 days – they become ineffective and can cause even more swelling of the mucosa

Antibiotics do not need to be used to treat colds and sore throats, because all colds are caused by viruses .

How is a sore throat with strep throat different from a sore throat with a cold?

Inflammation in the pharynx with angina is caused by strep bacteria tococci. For infection with a sore throat, airborne contact with a patient or carrier of a streptococcal infection is necessary. Despite the fact that more often angina occurs in children from 5 to 15 years old, adults can also get sick with it. For an accurate diagnosis of angina, the attending physician can take a rapid test for streptococcus or send material for bacterial analysis to the laboratory. Most often, the diagnosis is made by a doctor based on the leading symptoms of angina – high fever, acute sore throat, white patches on the pharyngeal mucosa and enlarged regional lymph nodes in the neck.

Why is a sore throat with sore throat more dangerous than with a cold?

Streptococcal angina can cause such a formidable complication as rheumatism with damage to the heart valves. Therefore, it is very important to start the correct treatment of angina in time. With proper treatment, the symptoms of sore throat disappear within 10 days.

Does sore throat differ from sore throat and cold?

With angina, the pain in the throat is more intense and has a number of features

• sudden onset

• loss of appetite

• pain when swallowing

• redness of the tonsils with white patches

• high fever

Do I need to seek medical help if I suspect streptococcal tonsillitis?

On the first day of illness, a sore throat with a cold and a sore throat is very similar. If you still suspect the presence of angina, you must definitely consult a doctor to establish the correct diagnosis and conduct therapy.

Treating sore throat with sore throat?

With angina, the use of antibiotics is mandatory . The most commonly prescribed oral antibiotics are the penicillin group. If there is an allergy to these antibiotics, another group is selected by the doctor. You must strictly follow the prescribed regimen for taking antibacterial, even if you feel better during the first and second days.

Why does the pain in the throat with streptococcal angina not decrease?

Sometimes, despite taking medications, the condition with angina does not improve within two to three days. This may indicate the development of complications. A visit to the doctor is necessary to clarify the treatment. Seek medical attention if you have the following symptoms:

• fever for more than 2-3 days while taking antibiotics

• nausea or vomiting

• earache

• severe headache

• neck muscle tension

• the appearance of a rash on the skin

• coughing

• shortness of breath

What is the difference between a sore throat with a cold and a sore throat with tonsillitis?

Sometimes a sore throat occurs with tonsillitis, an inflammation of the tonsils (lymphatic tissue) in the throat. Tonsillitis can be caused by both viruses and bacteria. Tonsils protect the body from infection through the pharynx, however, they themselves can be affected by an infectious agent. When this happens, the affected tonsils cause acute pain.

How do the symptoms of tonsillitis differ from a sore throat with a cold?

A cold is usually accompanied by symptoms such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, and cough. With tonsillitis, these symptoms are absent, but there is swelling of the tonsils and a yellowish coating on them. In addition, the following symptoms occur with tonsillitis:

• shortness of breath

• fever

• hoarseness

• pain when swallowing

• enlarged lymph nodes in the neck

How to treat sore throat with tonsillitis?

If tonsillitis is caused by bacterial flora, antibiotics should be prescribed. The decision is made by the attending physician.