Sore throats are typically caused by a viral or bacterial infection of the pharynx. The condition is most common in children but can affect people of any age. Sore throat medications work to relieve the pain, inflammation and trouble swallowing that is associated with the condition, but some sore throat medications might mask the symptoms of potentially serious diseases. If the pain of a sore throat is not helped by sore throat medications, or if the symptoms do not clear up after a few days, an evaluation by a doctor is important to rule out infections or other disorders that require additional treatment.
Significance
Sore throats are one of the most common reasons given by people when making a doctor's appointment, and they result in more days missed from school and work than any other symptom. Sore throat medications enable people to continue with their normal activities while waiting for antibiotics to work, for a viral illness to subside, or for allergy medication to ease their symptoms. While some home remedies, such as gargling with salt water, are equally effective as over-the-counter throat medications, the ease and convenience of sore throat sprays and lozenges make them attractive to many sufferers.
Function
Sore throat medications work to reduce pain, but most do not treat the source of the pain. Medications containing anesthetics temporarily block pain signals from traveling along nerve fibers to the brain. Antiseptic throat medications help destroy or prevent the growth of bacteria in the throat, thereby easing pain and inflammation. When sore throats are caused by bacterial infections, antibiotics might be prescribed to treat the root of the pain, which is an underlying infection in the throat or elsewhere in the body.
Types
The type of sore throat medication used depends on the cause of the sore throat. Sprays and gargles containing anesthetics and antiseptics numb the sore throat, and most are available over the counter. Medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen might reduce pain and inflammation while also reducing any accompanying fever. When the sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection, an antibiotic might be necessary to eliminate the infection and relieve pain. Lozenges are also available over the counter, but these are effective only if used continuously throughout the day.
Benefits
When taken properly and under the supervision of a doctor, throat medications can provide welcome relief from the pain and swelling associated with many viral and bacterial throat infections. They might make it possible to sleep, and products that contain antiseptics might speed up healing time. Sore throat medications might also make eating and swallowing tolerable, which can improve overall health, restore energy and prevent dehydration.
Warning
Overuse of some sore throat medications might increase inflammation, especially when taken in doses higher than recommended. Bacterial infections should not be treated with medications containing anesthetics, as these medications might reduce awareness of a worsening infection. Sore throat medications might also mask symptoms of potentially serious diseases, including throat and mouth cancer. Persistent sore throats require medical attention, even if the pain is mild.
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