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What Causes Sore Throat, Severe Cough And Pain While Swallowing Food?

Posted on Wed, 27 May 2015

Question: I have had a sore throat on and off for three weeks.It started with a terrible cough.just when it seems like its better it comes back.it is not like the other sore throats I have had.It is in my lower throat right in the middle.Hurts to swallow ( especially food) and yawn.Feel it some what in my ears now as well.

Answered by Dr. Riyanka Chail (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
consult a ENT doctor for the medications suggested

Detailed Answer:
Hello Sir/ Madam,

Thanks for writing in .

This is Dr.Riyanka and I am glad to be helping you with your query.

The present sore throat problem may or may not be related to the previous infection. However since it hurts to swallow, you will benefit with antibiotic therapy. In such cases I would suggest starting
1. Antibiotics like Augmentin 625mg ( Amoxycillin and clavulanate Potassium combination) -
two times a day (morning and night ) for one week , provided you are not allergic to penicillins.
2. Antihistamines(reduces allergy) like Cetrizine 10mg daily at night for seven days.
3. Along with antiinflammatory agents like Ibuprofen 400mg, two times a day - morning and night after food, lozenges and proton pump inhibitor.

While antibiotics require a prescription, other medications are available over the counter at most places. Check with your pharmacist.

Besides the above, you should also try XXXXXXX warm salt water gargles 3-4 times a day. It has a significant role. If you are a smoker , reduce the smoking as it shall lessen irritation. Also drink warm soups and bland food. Drink good amount of fluids and water.

Hope this answers your query. Don't worry .
Do write back if you have any further doubts.

Get well soon
Dr.Riyanka

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Riyanka Chail (6 hours later)

Thank you.I am currently on zithromax as I am allergic to penicillin.I am a big worry wart and google everything and along with all kinds of minor infections throat cancer comes up when I google cough,sore throat for 3 weeks,ear pain and froggy voice on and off.I was told my ear is red and my throat is irritated and it could be viral or not.This all seems to have happened since allergy season.The only thing that has lessoned my worry is my husband now has a bad cough and irritation as well.I was thinking sinus infection for my nose is stuffy too but cant get the worry out of my head.wish I wasnt a googler to see the bad stuff.guess Im looking for reassurance.

Answered by Dr. Riyanka Chail (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Please be assured that your sore throat will get alright in sometime.

Detailed Answer:
Hello Madam,
Thank you for writing back to us.
It is good that you are on antibiotics - zithromax (Azithromycin).

Please be assured that your sore throat will get alright in sometime. It is common in such weathers.

Kindly follow the additional therapies like gargling and warm fluids for soothening effect.

Alot of information is availabe on the net and going by each and every website alot of unnecessary anxiety and confusion takes place.

Please trust your doctor, it seems like a throat infection which will get alright in time.
Kindly take your medications properly and please complete the entire dose of antibiotics.

Hope this answers your query. Don't worry .
Do write back if you have any further doubts.

Get well soon
Dr.Riyanka

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Riyanka Chail (6 hours later)

Thanks again..hopefully after 3 weeks it goes away soon.quitting smoking is first on my list ! :)

Answered by Dr. Riyanka Chail (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, its important to quit smoking

Detailed Answer:
Hello Madam,
Thanks for writing back .
Your sore throat will get alright soon.

Yes, it is important to quit smoking, however kindly do it slowly and steadily instead of suddenly stopping it as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Quiting smoking shall reduce throat infections and future risk of carcinomas.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Get well soon
Dr.Riyanka

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad