Viral Sore Throat Treatment- How to Stop its Progression?

Millions of cases of common cold arise every year in the United States. With adults having approximately 2-3 colds per year. And among the number of reasons behind this occurrence, sore throat seems to be the start of any type of cold. Healthcare centers often get complaints regarding bacterial and viral sore throat treatment. 

Unlike what you think, the most common cause of sore throat is a viral infection. While the other type of infection is usually caused by a bacterial infestation. However, such cases are comparatively rare as compared to viral infections. Let’s understand regarding viral sore throat infections a bit more.

Causes of Sore Throat

You can get a sore throat either because of bacterial or viral infection. Research has established the fact that more than 250 viral strains are responsible for causing cold and sore throat. More than 90% of the cases are caused by viruses. 

Other than that, one can also get a sore throat by different types of irritants such as air pollution, excessive yelling, using postnasal drip caused by some allergies. Sometimes injuries at the back of the throat and stomach acid reverting back into the throat or mouth. 

Viral sore throat affects people of all ages. Be it a 5-year-old toddler or a 20-year-old teenager. In addition to that, smokers, patients with a history of allergy, or with compromised immune systems are at high risk of developing sore throat infections. 

Other causes of developing viral sore throat infections include- 

• Influenza
• Mononucleosis
• Measles
• Chickenpox
• Croup
• Whooping cough 

What Are The Symptoms of Viral Sore Throat Infection?

One can easily recognize viral sore throat symptoms. Although the type of symptoms might vary depending on the cause. The following are some of the common signs and symptoms. 

• Scratchy and painful sensation in the throat
• Unable to swallow or painful swallowing
• Sore or Swollen glands around your neck or jaw
• Red tonsils
• White patches or pus on your tonsils
• Hoarse voice

If sore throat is a part of any underlying infection, then you might see the following symptoms as well. 

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Body aches
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting

When to Look For Viral Sore Throat Treatment?

Normally any sore throat goes away within 7 to 10 days. However, seek immediate medical attention when your symptoms include- drooling, redness, swelling or swollen lymph nodes, higher than 101°F. 

Here’s How You Can Treat Sore Throat Linked With Common Colds. 

Although there is precisely no cure for infections related to the cold virus, there are many ways that will help you manage the condition effectively. 

You can go for drinking warm liquids or gargling with warm salt water, sucking on ice chips. Also, go for a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids. You can look for any OTC medications. Here are some of the common medications that you can go for. 

• Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen are great options for relieving aches or pains associated with a cold and sore throat. 
• You can also go for sore throat lozenges to soothe your pain in the throat. 
• Decongestant nasal sprays to relieve a sore throat.

Here’s How You Can Treat Sore Throat Linked With Tonsilitis

If the tonsilitis infection is viral, antibiotics will be of help. As it will take its course even if you consume any antibiotics. For viral sore throat treatment, Here’s how you can manage your condition like a pro.

• Take plenty of rest
• Keep yourself hydrated
• Eat smooth foods such as ice cream, frozen desserts, and soup
• Avoid any spicy food or vaping
• Go only for OTC medications such as naproxen, acetaminophen

However, if this infection repeats frequently and starts interfering with sleep and breathing, the doctor might recommend a tonsillectomy.

How Can You Prevent Spreading Sore Throat Infection? 

If you have been diagnosed with a viral sore throat, then

• Avoid any contact with others until all your symptoms are gone. Viral infections are usually more contagious.
• Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose. 
• Don’t share food or eating dishes with others. 

To summarize, viral sore throat infections might not look so contagious at first. But, if you are not taking proper precautions, it might result in serious infections. So, go for timely viral sore throat treatment.