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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How To Treat Sore Throat?

I have a sore throat. It started Friday, and I still have it just as bad--to where I try not to swallow as much (because it hurts) Normally when I get a sore throat it means a cold is on the way and I start to take Zicam. The sore throat normally lasts 2 days and the cold continues. I have not had a sore throat that lasts more than 2 days. Could it just be the cold or is there something else it could be?
Fri, 12 Sep 2014
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ENT Specialist,  's  Response
Most sore throats are due to viral infections in which case they last for a few days and disappear, and that's what you seem to have been experiencing in the past. If you are not having any irritation or itching (suggestive of allergy) or no sensation of burning or dry cough (suggestive of acid reflux) the next common thing possible is an ulcer, especially if you feel the pain at one particular point.
Most ulcers are also self- limiting and you could try doing a warm saline gargle and avoiding spicy foods. If it still persists after 2-3 days, please see an ENT specialist for a thorough check up.
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How To Treat Sore Throat?

Most sore throats are due to viral infections in which case they last for a few days and disappear, and that s what you seem to have been experiencing in the past. If you are not having any irritation or itching (suggestive of allergy) or no sensation of burning or dry cough (suggestive of acid reflux) the next common thing possible is an ulcer, especially if you feel the pain at one particular point. Most ulcers are also self- limiting and you could try doing a warm saline gargle and avoiding spicy foods. If it still persists after 2-3 days, please see an ENT specialist for a thorough check up.