Having a sore throat is a common problem, and a sore throat can be caused by a wide variety of issues. Viral infections are one of the most common causes of a sore throat. Your ENT specialist can help. The ENT specialists at Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy Specialists of Northwestern Pennsylvania in Erie, PA, offer comprehensive ENT services, including treatment of a sore throat.
What You Need To Know About a Sore Throat
Respiratory infections can be caused by a virus from a cold or the flu. One of the most common symptoms of a respiratory infection is a sore throat. A sore throat results from mucus draining down the back of your throat.
You can try a few simple tips to help relieve and heal a sore throat. When you have a sore throat, you should:
- Drink plenty of liquids
- Drink warm tea with honey
- Gargle with warm salt water
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers
- Place a humidifier in your bedroom
If you continue to have a sore throat, you should visit your ENT specialist if you have:
- A severe sore throat lasting longer than 5 to 7 days
- A rash or joint pain in addition to a sore throat
- A sore throat without an identifiable cause like allergies
- A fever over 101 degrees
- A difficult time swallowing, breathing, or opening your mouth
- An earache or lump in your neck
- Blood or mucus in your saliva
Your ENT specialist will perform a comprehensive medical examination and may recommend laboratory testing. Your ENT specialist may prescribe antiviral medications to help ease symptoms.
Want To Know More About a Sore Throat?
To learn more about the causes and treatment of a sore throat, talk with the experts. Call the doctors at Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy Specialists of Northwestern Pennsylvania in Erie, PA. You can reach them in the office by calling (814) 864-9994, so call today.