You may develop a red throat with white patches . The tonsils are red and enlarged. There may be specks of pus present on the tonsils or there may be a grey or white covering on the tonsils. With strep throat, people may also have trouble swallowing and may have tender, swollen lymph glands on the sides of the neck. Skin rash HOME CARE Section 5 of 14 Treatment of pain is often the number one priority for any type of sore throat.
Fever can increase fluid requirements, and painful swallowing can decrease fluid intake.
Therefore, drinking enough fluids is very important. When it is hard to drink, it is important to decrease your body s requirements for fluid through rest and lowering any fever. Avoid caffeine because it can cause water loss. Throat lozenges often prove inadequate for all but the most minor cases. Gargling with salt water is sometimes helpful.