Your sore throat relief specialist

 

Know when to call your doctor

Use this checklist to help you decide when to seek help from your medical professional.

Know when to call a doctor

A sore throat is usually a symptom of a common cold or a mild infection and often lasts about three days. However, it may also point to something more serious.

When to call emergency services

Call emergency services immediately if you experience any of the following:

  • The throat or tongue swells rapidly
  • Airways are constricted or tightening
  • An object is caught in the throat
  • Severe difficulty breathing or choking
  • Ongoing dizziness
  • Loss of consciousness 
  • Chemicals, detergents or other poisons may have been swallowed

Visit your doctor if you have the following symptoms:

  • Severe sore throat that lasts longer than 3 days
  • A fever above 38° Celsius (101° Fahrenheit) 
  • Difficulty in breathing, swallowing or fully opening your mouth 
  • White spots on your tonsils 
  • Sore, swollen glands in your neck 
  • Traces of blood in your saliva
  • A rash  
  • Ear ache 
  • Joint pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Hoarseness or cough that lasts longer than 7 days 
  • Sore throat that returns repeatedly

Checklist: information for your doctor.

Before you call your health professional, ensure you have all the relevant information at hand. Here are a list of questions that you may be asked:

  • What are the symptoms? Write down a list of all the symptoms you are experience. 
  • When did the symptoms begin? 
  • What is your temperature? 
  • Do you have any allergies? 
  • Are you taking any medications? Ensure you disclose all pharmaceutical products that you are taking. 
  • Do you have any other illness? Make a note of any pre-existing conditions you may have.
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