What medication should I take for a sore throat caused by catching a chill?

Generally speaking, the throat refers to the pharynx. Sore throat caused by getting chilled may be due to irritation of the respiratory mucosa, loss of moisture, common cold, acute pharyngitis, epiglottitis, and other causes. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and use medications such as Paracetamol and Amantadine Hydrochloride Tablets, Ganmaoling Granules, Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, Yinhuang Tablets, Levofloxacin Tablets, etc., under the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Irritation of Respiratory Mucosa

When chilled, cold air directly stimulates the respiratory mucosa, especially the mucosa in the throat area. The blood vessels constrict in response to cold, blood circulation becomes impaired, local resistance decreases, and nerve endings become irritated, leading to a sore throat. Usually, no medication is needed. Adjust clothing according to weather changes, avoid inhaling excessively cold air directly, and wear a mask when going outdoors in cold weather.

2. Moisture Loss

After getting chilled, the body may lose more moisture through the skin and respiratory tract, possibly causing dryness of the throat mucosa, loss of protective moisture, and making the mucosa fragile and prone to pain. Generally, no medication is needed. Replenishing fluids, maintaining a daily water intake of 1500-2000 ml, drinking more warm water or warm tea can keep the throat mucosa moist and help alleviate these symptoms.

3. Common Cold

The common cold is mainly caused by viral infections, such as rhinovirus and coronavirus. After getting chilled, the body's resistance decreases, allowing viruses to invade the upper respiratory tract and multiply extensively in the throat area, causing inflammation and stimulating nerve endings, leading to sore throat. Symptoms may also include sneezing and a runny nose. Under a physician's guidance, medications such as Paracetamol and Amantadine Hydrochloride Tablets, Ganmaoling Granules, and Vitamin C Yinqiao Tablets can be used for treatment.

4. Acute Pharyngitis

Acute pharyngitis is mostly caused by viral infections, with a few cases caused by bacterial infections. After getting chilled, viruses or bacteria more easily attack the pharyngeal mucosa and surrounding lymphatic tissues, triggering inflammation that stimulates the throat, causing sore throat. Patients may also experience discomfort when swallowing and dry throat. Patients can use medications such as Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, Yinhuang Tablets, and Compound Sarcandra Glabra Tablets under medical guidance.

5. Epiglottitis

Epiglottitis is usually caused by infection, allergy, trauma, and other factors. After getting chilled, decreased immunity may trigger infection. Acute inflammation of the epiglottis causes significant swelling and irritation of surrounding nerves, resulting in the above symptoms. Difficulty swallowing and breathing difficulties may also occur. Patients can take medications such as Levofloxacin Tablets, Amoxicillin Clavulanate Potassium Tablets, and Azithromycin Tablets as advised by a physician.

In daily life, it is important to maintain good indoor air circulation and regularly open windows for ventilation. During flu season, try to avoid crowded places. Pay attention to oral hygiene and develop good habits such as rinsing the mouth after meals and brushing teeth in the morning and evening.