A sore throat, often marked by a rough, scratchy sensation at the back of your throat, can be the initial indicator of a developing cold. Colds can range from standard viral infections to COVID-19 or even more severe health issues.

The throat, also known scientifically as the pharynx, serves a dual purpose: it’s a passageway for food heading towards the esophagus and air on its way to the windpipe and larynx.

Various factors can lead to a sore throat, including allergies, exposure to smoke, strep throat, and tonsillitis.

The approach to treating a sore throat varies depending on the underlying cause. For milder cases, remedies such as sucking on throat lozenges, increasing fluid intake, and gargling salt water can provide relief. However, for more severe infections, medical providers, like those at Make You Well, might prescribe antibiotics to combat the bacterial infection causing the sore throat.

Antibiotics are effective because they interfere with essential bacterial processes, either killing the bacteria or inhibiting its growth.

In some instances, an antiviral medication may be necessary. These medications work by preventing viruses from attaching to and entering healthy cells.

At Make You Well in Colleyville, TX, healthcare professionals are equipped to assess your symptoms and medical history to pinpoint the exact cause of your sore throat and provide a path to recovery.