The raw, scratchy feeling in the back of your throat is normally the first sign that you may be developing a cold. This could range from a common viral infection, to Covid-19, to a more serious condition.
The throat is the tube that carries food to your esophagus and air to your windpipe and larynx. The scientific name for the throat is the Pharynx.
There are many reasons for developing a sore throat. These include allergies, smoking, strep throat, tonsillitis, and many others.
Treatment depends on the root cause of the problem. Solutions as simple as sucking on lozenges, drinking liquids, and gargling may ease the pain of a sore throat if the cause is less severe. For more serious conditions, the providers at Make You Well may need to prescribe an antibiotic to fight off the infection that is causing the sore throat.
Antibiotics work by blocking vital processes in bacteria. They kill the bacteria or stop it from spreading.
Another solution may be to prescribe an anti-viral medication. Antivirals block receptors so that viruses can’t bind to and enter healthy cells.
The providers at Make You Well in Torrance, CA can evaluate your specific symptoms and condition to diagnose the root cause of your sore throat, and get you back on your feet in no time.
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Make You Well Urgent Care & Family Practice in Torrance, CA offers a variety of Urgent Care and Medical services.
WHAT CAN CAUSE A SORE THROAT?
There are many things that can cause a sore throat. Some of the most common causes include:
- Viral infections: The most common cause of a sore throat is a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu. Viral infections can cause inflammation and irritation of the throat, which can lead to pain and discomfort.
- Bacterial infections: Strep throat is a bacterial infection that can cause a sore throat. Strep throat is usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes.
- Allergies: Allergies to pollen, dust, or other allergens can cause a sore throat. Allergies can also cause postnasal drip, which can irritate the throat and make it feel sore.
- Dryness: Dry air can irritate the throat and make it feel sore. This is why people who live in cold, dry climates are more likely to get a sore throat.
- Injuries: A sore throat can also be caused by an injury to the throat, such as a blow to the neck or a bite.
- Irritants: Smoking, secondhand smoke, and certain chemicals can irritate the throat and cause a sore throat.
- Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as mononucleosis, can cause a sore throat.
If you have a sore throat, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause. The treatment for a sore throat will depend on the underlying cause. For example, if you have a viral infection, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and fluids. If you have strep throat, you will need to be treated with antibiotics.
Here are some tips to help relieve a sore throat:
- Drink plenty of fluids. This will help keep your throat moist and make it feel better.
- Gargle with warm salt water. This can help to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation.
- Use a humidifier or take a hot shower. This can help to add moisture to the air and make your throat feel better.
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke. These can irritate the throat and make the sore throat worse.
- Get plenty of rest. This will help your body heal and make the sore throat go away faster.
If you have a sore throat that is severe or does not go away after a few days, see a doctor. Make You Well Urgent Care & Family Practice is located in Torrance, CA. Walk-Ins welcome or Book an appointment today.