i keep getting a sore throat that comes and goes

the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) – which normally causes glandular fever.herpes simplex virus type 1 – which normally causes cold sores.adenovirus – which can also cause conjunctivitis, an infection in the eye.Other bacteria and viruses each tend to be responsible for less than 5% of sore throats. different types of streptococcal bacteria – group A streptococcal bacteria cause 10% of sore throats in adults and nearly a third of sore throats in children, with groups C and G also thought to be a cause of sore throats.the rhinovirus, coronavirus and parainfluenza viruses, which normally cause the common cold– these are responsible for a quarter of all sore throats.The most common types of bacteria and viruses that may cause a sore throat include: you're making a high-pitched sound as you breathe (called stridor)Ī sore throat is often just one symptom of a bacterial or viral infection, such as the common cold.your symptoms are severe or getting worse quickly.Visit your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department or call 999 for an ambulance immediately if:

Very rarely, a sore throat can be a sign of a serious problem. a high-pitched sound as you breathe (stridor).Visit your nearest accident and emergency department (A&E) or call 999 for an ambulance if you have severe symptoms such as: This is because your sore throat may be a symptom of a more serious condition. If you have a persistent sore throat (one that lasts three to four weeks), you should see your GP who may refer you for further tests. If they're not open, you should phone the NHS 24 111service

you have a weak immune system – for example, you have HIV, are having chemotherapy, or are taking medication that suppresses your immune system.

you experience severe sore throats frequently.

you have persistent symptoms that haven't started to improve after a week.

You don't usually need to get medical advice if you have a sore throat however your pharmacist may advise you see your GP if: These conditions are more serious and should be seen by a doctor as soon as possible (see below).

epiglottitis (inflammation of the flap of tissue at the back of the throat) – the pain may be severe and you may have difficulty breathing and difficulty swallowing.

quinsy (a painful collection of pus at the back of the throat) – the pain may be severe and you may also have difficulty opening your mouth or difficulty swallowing.

Less often, a sore throat can be a sign of: It may also be caused by something irritating your throat, such as smoke, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (where acid leaks up from the stomach) and allergies.

glandular fever – you may also feel very tired and have a fever and swollen glands in your neck.

strep throat (a bacterial throat infection) – you may also have swollen glands in your neck, discomfort when swallowing and tonsillitis.

tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils) – you may also have red or spotty tonsils, discomfort when swallowing and a fever.

laryngitis (inflammation of the voice box) – you may also have a hoarse voice, a dry cough and a constant need to clear your throat.

colds or flu – you may also have a blocked or runny nose, a cough, a high temperature (fever), a headache and general aches.

But in most cases it's a symptom of a viral or bacterial infection. The cause of a sore throat isn't always obvious. There are also products such as medicated lozenges and sprays sold in pharmacies that you may want to try. There isn't much scientific evidence to suggest they help, although some people find them worth using.Īntibiotics aren't usually prescribed for a sore throat, even if it's caused by a bacterial infection, as they're unlikely to make you feel better any quicker and they can have unpleasant side effects.

suck lozenges, hard sweets, ice cubes or ice lollies – but don't give young children anything small and hard to suck because of the risk of choking.

gargle with a homemade mouthwash of warm, salty water.

drink plenty of cool or warm fluids, and avoid very hot drinks.

take ibuprofen or paracetamol – paracetamol is better for children and for people who can't take ibuprofen (note that children under 16 should never take aspirin).

The following measures can often help soothe a sore throat: Most are caused by minor illnesses such as colds or flu and can be treated at home. Sore throats are very common and usually nothing to worry about.

I keep getting a sore throat that comes and goes