What Causes Swollen Painful Throat?

Posted on Wed, 8 Apr 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 8 Apr 2015 Answered on

Fri, 24 Apr 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : A week ago I had a sore throat on just my left side. I woke up with it and also had dry mouth all that week when I woke up in the morning. It eventually went away a couple of days later. Today I just suddenly felt a pain in my mouth on the right side now and it hurts to move my tongue there. My throat also feels swollen just on the right side. Any ideas what it is? This has been going on for 2-3 weeks with soreness on either the right side of my throat or left side. I don't know if it's maybe allergies, etc. What do I have?

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
sequelae of common cold

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking

I read your question and I understand your concern. These sore throat symptoms with painful fauces are the sequelae of the cold you recently had. Post nasal dripping from the cold irritates the throat and causes the his sore throat symptoms.

All you need is some good aspirin and garlic water gargles frequently. Hot beverages like herbal tea mixed with honey and some acetaminophen for the pain. If you have fever you may give a try of amoxil antibiotics for 5 days but it seems likely viral so antibiotic won't help.

These symptoms self resolve with just conservative care. Avoid smoking or any other irritants to throat like spices , cola beverages etc.

I hope it helps. Take good care of yourself and don't forget to close the discussion please.

Regards XXXXXXX

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. Chakravarthy Mazumdar