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For a common cold with a sore throat, which department should I visit?

Mar 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
For a sore throat caused by a cold, you may choose to visit the respiratory medicine department, otorhinolaryngology (ENT), traditional Chinese medicine department, infectious disease department, or emergency department. However, the specific department should be selected based on the severity of symptoms and accompanying symptoms, to facilitate timely development of a treatment plan according to the underlying cause. At the same time, it is important to rest adequately and maintain a positive mindset to promote recovery.

Generally speaking, the term "throat" refers to the pharynx. If a sore throat is caused by a cold, you can choose to visit departments such as respiratory medicine, otorhinolaryngology (ENT), traditional Chinese medicine, infectious diseases, or emergency medicine. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Department of Respiratory Medicine

The department of respiratory medicine primarily focuses on diagnosing and treating upper respiratory tract diseases, such as bronchitis and pneumonia. If a sore throat is caused by a cold and accompanied by symptoms like shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, visiting this department is advisable. Diagnostic evaluation can be performed through chest X-ray, chest CT, and other related examinations.

2. Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT)

If the sore throat is caused by a cold and accompanied by symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, or ear pain, visiting the otorhinolaryngology department is recommended. Diagnostic evaluation can be conducted using pharyngoscopy and other examinations to assess the condition of the throat area.

3. Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine

In traditional Chinese medicine, a cold is considered to belong to the category of heat pathogens. Therefore, visiting the traditional Chinese medicine department for diagnosis and analysis is an option. Diagnosis is primarily made through traditional methods such as inspection, listening and smelling, inquiry, and palpation, allowing treatment based on syndrome differentiation.

4. Department of Infectious Diseases

If the cold is suspected to be caused by bacterial or viral infection, and sore throat is accompanied by symptoms such as swollen or red throat, visiting the infectious diseases department is recommended. Diagnostic evaluation can be performed using tests such as throat swab culture and blood culture.

5. Department of Emergency Medicine

If the symptoms of the cold are severe, and the patient experiences symptoms such as rapid breathing, dizziness, or fever, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention at the emergency department for urgent treatment, such as oxygen therapy or nebulizer treatment.

Prior to visiting a doctor, patients should choose an appropriate department according to their specific symptoms and the severity of their condition. Additionally, patients should ensure adequate rest and maintain a positive mindset.

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