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Sore Throat

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Having a sore throat is usually just one of the symptoms of a virus or bacterial infection. The common cold is responsible for 25% of all sore throats. In about 1/3 of cases, no cause for a sore throat can be found. If you find yourself having a sore throat you may have;

Tonsillitis,
Enlarged / Tender glands in neck.
If a bacterial infection or virus is the cause of your sore throat, the following list of other symptoms experienced may be;

  • A high temperature of 38C +
  • Aches in the muscles and feeling of tiredness
  • Headache
  • Cough
  • Runny nose

How did I get a sore throat?

The virus or bacteria is usually passed via sneezing/coughing or talking to someone who is infected. Once the virus or bacterial infection gets into your body, two types of sore throat can develop
Pharyngitis– where the back of the throat becomes inflamed
Tonsillitis – where your tonsils become inflamed.

Treating your sore throat

Symptoms of a sore throat can last between 3-7 days and may not be very serious. If this is the case, there are some treatments and tips that you can use to relieve the symptoms that you have.

  • Don’t drink liquids that are too hot as they can irritate your throat.
  • Ensure to eat soft food that’s cooled.
  • Adults can use lozenges, ice cubes or ice lollies.
  • If you are a smoker, try to avoid smoking during this time.
  • Using a gargle of salt and warm water can help to reduce the swelling and pain.
  • Ensure to drink plenty of fluids in particular if you have high temperature.

When should I see my GP?

  • If you find you are in a “at risk group” for developing health complications such as having a weakened immune system or chronic diseases. (An “at risk group” are individuals who are pregnant, have a chronic disease-diabetes, asthma- , are aged 65 years and over or those who are immuno-compromised due to treatment of a disease or medication.)
  • If your symptoms do not improve within a week.
  • If you have a high temperature of 38C + that does not go down after taking medication.
  • If you are unable to take adequate amounts of fluids due to pain.

When should I visit A&E?

You should go to your nearest A&E if you are experiencing any severe symptoms such as the following;

  • Finding it difficult to breathe
  • Having severe pain in the throat that restricts you swallowing fluids
  • Experiencing stridor (a high pitched sound when you breathe)
  • Drooling

 We can help you

Book an appointment with the nurse at IT Sligo Health Services reception desk – Don’t forget your student ID card.

Email studenthealthservices@nullitsligo.ie or contact -071 93 05463 or 071 93 05205 for further information.

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