Symptoms:
Viral infections:
- Sore or scratchy, dry feeling
- Hoarseness
- Mild fever or no fever
Bacterial infections:
- Swollen tonsils and neck glands
- Back of throat is bright red with white patches
- Fever (101) and chills
Home Care/Self Treatment:
- Rest
- Voice rest
- Increase oral fluid intake
- Drink warm beverages
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Tylenol, Ibuprofen
- Salt water gargle (1/4 tsp. salt in ½ cup warm water) several times a day
- Try throat lozenges
- Use cool mist humidifier
- Avoid smoke and air pollutants
Seek Medical Attention if:
- Inability to swallow secretions/drooling
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever 101
- Rash