What medicine should I take for a sore throat?
May 08, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, a sore throat refers to pharyngeal pain. Pharyngeal pain can be treated with medications such as Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid, Qingkailing Oral Liquid, Compound Isatis Root Granules, Ibuprofen Sustained-Release Capsules, and Shuanghuanglian Oral Liquid. When using these medications, it is essential to follow the doctor's instructions or the dosage and administration guidelines provided in the product说明书 (instructions), avoiding overdose or prolonged use.
In general, a sore throat refers to pharyngeal pain. The choice of medication for a sore throat depends on the specific underlying cause. Pharyngeal pain may be triggered by factors such as dry throat, excessive voice use, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If in doubt, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to determine the exact cause. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Dry throat
Prolonged lack of water intake or staying in a dry environment can lead to dryness of the mucous membranes in the throat, causing pain. This is because a dry environment reduces the moisture level in the throat, making the mucous membranes more susceptible to irritation. Medication is generally not required; symptoms can be relieved by drinking more water, maintaining indoor humidity, and avoiding prolonged mouth breathing.
2. Excessive voice use
Prolonged talking, singing, or loud shouting can overwork the throat, causing pain and discomfort. This is because excessive voice use fatigues the throat muscles and mucous membranes, triggering an inflammatory response. Medication is usually unnecessary. It is recommended to rest the voice and avoid overuse to alleviate symptoms.
3. Pharyngitis
Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the throat caused by viral or bacterial infection. Invasion of bacteria or viruses into the throat leads to congestion and swelling of the pharyngeal mucosa, resulting in pain. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as dry throat, throat itching, foreign body sensation, and coughing. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Qinghou Liyan Granules, Watermelon Frost Throat Tablets, or Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid may be used to relieve symptoms.
4. Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils caused by bacterial or viral infection. The inflammation leads to swelling and congestion of the tonsils, causing throat pain. Symptoms may also include difficulty swallowing, fever, headache, and fatigue. It is recommended to use medications such as Penicillin V Potassium Tablets, Amoxicillin Capsules, or Cefprozil Tablets under medical supervision to alleviate pain.
5. Gastroesophageal reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux refers to the backflow of stomach acid or stomach contents into the esophagus and throat, irritating the throat mucosa and causing pain. This is due to the corrosive nature of stomach acid, which can damage the throat mucosa. Symptoms may also include acid regurgitation, heartburn, and belching. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as Omeprazole Enteric-Coated Capsules, Mosapride Tablets, or Hydrotalcite Magnesium Aluminum Tablets for treatment.
It is recommended that, in daily life, one's diet should consist of mild and easily digestible foods, avoiding spicy and irritating foods that may irritate the throat mucosa.
