A sore throat (pharyngitis) is normally a symptom of a bacterial or viral infection, such as the common cold.

Most sore throats are not serious and usually pass without the need for medical treatment. Taking some over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, and self-care tips such as eating cool, soft food, drinking cool or warm liquids, sucking ice cubes or lollies, and avoiding cigarette smoke can usually help to relieve the symptoms without the need to see a GP.

The use of antibiotics is not usually recommended, unless particularly severe. This is because most sore throats are not caused by bacteria.