Case scenario

You conduct a MedsCheck for a regular patient, Mrs Nguyen. While undertaking the MedsCheck interview, Mrs Nguyen mentions that she and her husband have had sore throats for the past 24 hours. The symptoms are not severe, and they have had negative test results for COVID-19 infection. They are also experiencing runny noses and slight coughs.

Introduction

Sore throat is caused by inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, usually the pharynx (pharyngitis), larynx, or tonsils (tonsillitis) and rarely the epiglottis.1,2 Sore throat is a symptom rather than a diagnosis.1 Although usually mild and self-limiting, it can be painful and warrants careful investigation by pharmacists.

Learning objectives

After reading this article, pharmacists should be able to:

  • Recognise causes of sore throat
  • Describe the management of sore throat
  • Explain when patients with sore throat should be referred to a medical practitioner.

Competencies addressed (2016): 1.1, 1.4, 1.5, 2.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.5.

Accreditation code: CAP2309OTCNW

Accreditation expiry: 31/08/2026

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