Sore Throat Treatment

Consult an AHPRA-licensed medical practitioner online within 15 minutes and get medical advice about sore throats, 24/7.

This guide does not replace professional care. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately.

About sore throat

A sore throat is a common health issue that many Australians experience, especially during colder months or when dealing with seasonal allergies. It’s typically described as pain, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat that often worsens when swallowing. A sore throat can be caused by viral infections like the common cold or flu, or by bacterial infections such as strep throat. Other triggers include dry air, smoking, voice strain, or exposure to irritants like pollution and allergens. In some cases, a sore throat may also be a symptom of a more serious condition like tonsillitis or glandular fever. Most sore throats are mild and improve within a few days with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter remedies. However, if symptoms persist beyond a week, worsen, or are accompanied by a high fever or difficulty swallowing, it’s a good idea to consult a GP for assessment and appropriate care.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

Mild sore throats usually resolve on their own or with the help of home remedies. But if the sore throat persists for more than 2 days and is not getting better, it is important to see a doctor and get a diagnosis. Consult a doctor if:

  • Persistent sore throat that lasts for more than a week
  • If you have high fever or chills
  • If you have trouble opening your mouth, swallowing and speaking
  • If you have white patches, pus or rash on your tonsils
  • If you have swollen lymph nodes particularly with fever
  • If have difficulty breathing
  • If you have recurring or frequent sore throats

This is caused by various factors such as:

  • Viral infections: Viral infections, such as the common cold, flu, or COVID-19
  • Bacterial infections: Strep throat caused by Streptococcus bacteria, can also lead to a sore throat.
  • Allergies: Allergies to pollen, dust, mould, or pet dander can cause throat irritation
  • Irritants: Smoking, passive smoking, pollution, and chemical fumes can irritate the throat
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD): GORD occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, leading to a sore, scratchy throat
  • Dry air, strain or overuse of throat

There are many symptoms of sore throat depending on its severity and the cause. Usually, a sore throat comes with pain and a scratchy throat which makes it difficult to swallow and talk. Here are some common symptoms of sore throat:

  • Pain or scratchiness
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Red, swollen throat
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Hoarseness
  • Fever and chills
  • White patches or pus on tonsils
  • Ear pain

It is distressing to see your child suffer with a sore throat. Here are some soothing home remedies for sore throats in infants and children:

  • Use a humidifier
  • Saltwater gargle for older children
  • Honey and lemon
  • Soothing herbal teas

It is tough to understand what type of sore throat you have. Viral sore throats usually come with other cold symptoms, like a runny nose or cough, while bacterial sore throats (like strept tonsillitis) are often more painful, come with a fever, and may have white spots on the tonsils. It is essential to speak with a doctor to understand whether your sore throat is viral or bacterial.

Some effective home remedies for sore throats in adults include gargling with salt water, staying hydrated, drinking warm teas with honey, using a humidifier, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.

Yes, if deemed necessary, an online doctor can issue an online prescription for the medication required to treat your sore throat. A virtual doctor will assess your condition, understand your symptoms and issue an instant script if deemed necessary. This online script can be dispensed at any pharmacy in Australia or uploaded to a pharmacy online for medicine delivery.
Yes, an online doctor can diagnose your condition depending on your symptoms and give you a prompt medical advice even if the GP near you is unavailable. A licensed medical practitioner will consult you online, issue online medical certificates, online referrals or online prescriptions if needed.

Yes, you can get a doctor’s certificate for sore throat through reputed telehealth platforms such as Hola Health. Get an online medical certificate 24/7 and within 15 minutes from the comfort of your home.

Hola Health is a trusted telehealth service in Australia, providing fast, reliable access to qualified doctors online. We offer a range of convenient telehealth services, including online medical certificates, instant prescriptions online, GP referrals, and after-hours telehealth consultations with AHPRA-accredited doctors.

Here’s what you can access with Hola Health’s telehealth platform:

Instantly connect to a registered practitioner within 15 minutes from anywhere in Australia, 24/7 for:

Access telehealth services