Sore Throat

What is a sore throat?

A sore throat is a common condition that can cause pain, irritation, or discomfort when swallowing. It is often caused by viral infections such as colds or flu, but some cases are caused by bacterial infections.

Symptoms can vary from mild irritation to severe throat pain and swollen glands.

What is Pharmacy First?

Pharmacy First is an NHS service that allows you to access treatment for common conditions directly from a community pharmacy without needing a GP appointment.

At our pharmacy, our trained pharmacists can assess your symptoms in a private consultation and provide treatment where appropriate, or refer you for further care if needed.

This service helps you get faster access to treatment and reduces pressure on GP surgeries and urgent care services.

Who can use this service?

• Patients aged 5 years and over
• People with symptoms of a sore throat or throat infection
• Patients who do not require urgent hospital treatment

Common symptoms of a sore throat

• Pain or discomfort when swallowing
• Red or inflamed throat
• Swollen glands in the neck
• White spots on the tonsils in some cases
• Fever or raised temperature
• Hoarse voice or dry throat

How Pharmacy First treatment works

1. Visit us at the pharmacy (no appointment needed)
2. Speak to a trained pharmacist in a private consultation room
3. Your symptoms are assessed clinically
4. Treatment is provided if appropriate
5. If needed, we will refer you to a GP or urgent care service

Do sore throats need antibiotics?

Most sore throats are caused by viruses and improve without antibiotics within a few days.

Antibiotics may only be recommended if symptoms suggest a bacterial throat infection or symptoms are more severe.

When to seek urgent medical help

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Severe throat swelling
• Symptoms that worsen rapidly
• Persistent high fever
• Symptoms lasting longer than expected without improvement

How to ease sore throat symptoms

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Rest and avoid smoking
• Use pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen if suitable
• Warm drinks and throat lozenges may help soothe symptoms
• Avoid very hot or irritating foods

Benefits of Pharmacy First

• No GP appointment required
• Fast NHS access to treatment
• Private consultation with our pharmacist
• Clinical assessment and treatment where appropriate
• Convenient local service

Book online or visit us today

You can visit us at the pharmacy for a same-day assessment, or book an appointment online for a convenient time.

Our pharmacists can assess sore throat symptoms, provide treatment where appropriate, and advise on symptom relief and recovery.

If you are unsure, contact us and we can advise you before you visit.