Sore throat is a symptom, not a disease. It can have various causes, so we will only discuss the treatment of the sore throat itself (symptomatic treatment) here, and not that of the causative disease. Sore throat of non-infectious origin, for example allergic, secondary to gastroesophageal reflux, tumor, etc. requires specific support.

Symptomatic treatments for a sore throat

• Against pain and fever, one can take analgesics (painkillers) of the paracetamol type.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen should be avoided and only taken if prescribed by a doctor and for a short period if the sore throat seems viral because they can promote the sometimes serious complications of bacterial tonsillitis.
• To fight against fever, think about drinking a lot (at least one and a half liters per day)
• Antibiotics are reserved for strep throat or complicated with abscesses
• Locally, mouthwashes, lozenges or gargles based on antiseptics may be used, whether or not associated with products that anesthetize the mucous membrane of the pharynx.
• Fumigations or inhalations may be of interest, in particular in the event of rhinitis (runny nose) or associated rhinosinusitis. They can be made with German chamomile, eucalyptus, thyme… etc.
• In the event of a blocked nose or sensation of discharge behind the throat, disinfect the nasal cavities with physiological saline or nasal drops.
• Warm milk with honey or a mixture of honey and lemon calms the irritation of the throat and is believed to have antiseptic properties. A “homemade” gargle can be made with the juice of half a lemon and a teaspoon of honey diluted in a glass of lukewarm water.
• Sore throats associated with allergic nasopharyngitis or gastroesophageal reflux require specific treatment in addition to symptomatic treatment, antihistamine for the former, anti-acid for the latter.

It is essential to consult a doctor in the event of:

• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Fever above 38 ° C
• Persistence of sore throat despite symptomatic treatment or its resumption at the end of treatment
• Association with other signs such as glands in the neck, rash, cough.
• If the sore throat affects a more fragile person due to age, pre-existing diseases or treatments that disrupt immunity

Preventive treatment for sore throat

• Do not smoke or expose yourself to passive smoking,
• Avoid close contact with people complaining of sore throat, rhinitis or flu,
• Limit exposure to pollution and chemical irritants such as certain household products,
• Avoid excessively dry atmospheres (heating at high temperatures and in particular electric heaters or air conditioning) which promote sore throats. Use a humidifier if the air in your home or office is too dry and drink regularly.

For more information, the full sheet on sore throat.