SORE THROAT

Condition and Symptoms

Sore throat is common and not always due to tonsillitis. Most acute sore throats are viral in origin. It is often difficult to tell the difference between viral and bacterial infections. The most common bacterial cause is due to group-A-haemolytic streptococcus (strep throat).

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The most common cause of a chronic sore throat in adults is chronic pharyngitis which is non-infective eg caused by smoking, alcohol and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.

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Treatment

After taking a detailed history and examination will be undertaken. This may include an examination using an endoscope. Under local anaesthetic the front of the nose, back of nose and the throat can be examined very carefully and possible  causes of the sore throat will be identified. Blood tests and imaging maybe be requested depending of the findings from the examination and a clear treatment schedule will be started