We may be in the midst of winter but this doesn't mean that you have to feel miserable with cold and flu symptoms. In this second of three articles I will look at sore throats. I will look at what causes a sore throat and what we can do to avoid them. I will also write about the minor ailments scheme, a free service available in all pharmacies.
Like a cough, a sore throat is usually a symptom of a viral or bacterial infection. It is also known as pharyngitis and is very commonly presented in the pharmacy. A sore throat may make it difficult to swallow and will normally last between three and seven days.
There are a number of medications that may cause a sore throat. It is, therefore, important to let your pharmacist know if you are taking any prescription medication.
TREATMENTS
The most effective treatments for a sore throat include NSAIDs e.g. ibuprofen and aspirin. Gargling two aspirin 300mg dispersible tablets can relieve the symptoms of a sore throat but it must be noted that aspirin is not suitable for children under 16 or anyone taking blood pressure medication.
Strefen lozenges have an anti-inflammatory action and are very effective at treating the symptoms of a sore throat.
For pregnant women, the only treatments available for sore throats are paracetamol and demulcents including the strepsils range. Demulcents act by lubricating the throat making it easier for the patient to swallow.
Anaesthetic sprays act by 'numbing' the sore throat. They are sometimes combined with antiseptics which act to kill the bacteria that are causing the sore throat. Antiseptics are often incorporated into pastilles. As most sore throats are caused by a virus it is not clear how effective these antiseptics are in treatment.
FREE MEDICATIONS
Under the minor ailments scheme, if you are exempt from prescription charges you are eligible to receive medications for coughs and colds free of charge from your local pharmacy. This scheme involves a short consultation with a member of the pharmacy team to ensure you are suitable to receive medication. You will also receive advice on how to avoid these ailments in the future and what you can do to feel better.
TIPS FOR TREATING AND AVOIDING SORE THROATS
1. Hot drinks including honey and lemon and hot soups may help to relieve the symptoms of a sore throat.
2. When going out wrap up warm with a coat, scarf and woolly hat. When we are very cold our immune defences are lower and infections that have been lying dormant can take hold.
3. Keep well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
4. Get plenty of sleep as lack of sleep results in decreased immunity and therefore a higher chance of developing a cold.
When buying over-the-counter medication it is important that you make your pharmacist aware if you have any underlying medical conditions, if you are taking any other medication or complementary therapy, or if your symptoms persist. Let your pharmacist know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and always read the product information before taking the medication. It is also important to keep all medicines out of sight and out of reach of children.
