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Sore throat

in adults and children

Infoblatt Halsschmerzen (PDF, 198 KB)

The most common cause of a sore throat is a cold. A sore throat usually disappears by itself after a few days. If the sore throat lasts for more than 14 days, it is referred to as a chronic sore throat. In addition to infections, dry (heated) air and dry mucous membranes can also cause pain and scratchiness in the throat.

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What can you do yourself to relieve a sore throat? 

Treatment without medication:
● Drink enough, but not greatly more than usual.
● Take it easy and get well rested.
● Refrain from smoking and avoid smoky rooms.
● Gargle salt water or herbal tea (sage or camomile tea). Caution: Children should NOT gargle salt water.
● Throat compresses (e.g. potato or lemon compresses) can soothe a sore throat.
● Vapour inhalation can relieve a sore throat.
● Sucking ice cubes, for example, can help to moisturise the throat and relieve pain.


Treatment with medication:
Treatment with medication is not normally necessary. As sore throats are often caused by viruses, taking
antibiotics is usually not helpful. A doctor can prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is detected. Taking
pain-relieving medication or lozenges can help, but should also always be done in consultation with a doctor.
 

When should medical advice be sought?


Contact a doctor in the following cases:
● You have a high temperature.
● Your sore throat will not get better or gets worse after 3-4 days.
● You have chest pain.
● You have difficulty swallowing.
● High-pitched sounds can be heard when breathing.
● Your general condition deteriorates significantly.