Sore Throats

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A person’s throat (or pharynx) is an incredible multi-tasking structure, seamlessly linking the nasal cavities, the back of the mouth and the food pipe. It allows us to breathe, swallow, and speak, but its versatility also means that discomfort in the throat can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.

Everyone experiences a sore throat from time to time, but when symptoms persist, become increasingly uncomfortable or start affecting daily function, it’s crucial to get answers. As one of the country’s leading ENT specialists, I help uncover the root cause of the issue and help patients find lasting relief rather than temporary fixes.

Most patients see me after consulting a pharmacist or GP, trying various over-the-counter lozenges or sprays or different courses of prescribed medicine, and are frustrated that the issue is not resolving as expected.

Diagnosis

To determine the underlying cause, I take a comprehensive approach:

  • Medical History: In addition to throat pain, patients may experience hoarseness, voice loss, bad breath, difficulty swallowing or a sensation of something being stuck. The combination and severity of symptoms can point to specific conditions, ranging from inflammation to more complex structural concerns
  • Physical Examination and Endoscopy: In my clinic, I conduct a close visual assessment using a flexible endoscope, passed via the nose while the patient is awake. Most find the process comfortable—and many are fascinated to see live images of their throat on the screen during the examination
  • Further Investigations: If the endoscopy reveals any unusual lumps or irregularities, an MRI scan may be recommended to rule out anything concerning or to gain a more detailed understanding of the findings, as an MRI scan can see deeper into the tissues
Sore throats
9 Harley Street

Treatment Options

Once we identify the cause, tailored treatment options can be explored. Some common causes of persistent issues are abscesses, lumps, tonsils, enlarged adenoids or digestive issues. Each patient receives a tailored care plan, designed to address their individual needs. While treatment varies, the overall approach typically includes:

  • If an abscess or lump is found, it may require antibiotic treatment (in case of infection) or surgical removal if it’s obstructive or concerning. In some cases, a biopsy may be needed to confirm the nature of the lump
  • Tonsils and adenoids can sometimes cause recurrent throat infections, difficulty swallowing, or breathing issues. Treatment may involve antibiotics or, in persistent cases, surgical removal. Click here to learn more about tonsilitis and enlarged adenoids
  • If symptoms suggest acid reflux or digestive concerns, further assessment may be necessary. I often refer patients to a trusted colleague (like a gastroenterologist), who can evaluate the digestive system to determine whether stomach acid is contributing to throat irritation

My goal is to provide patients with clear answers and effective solutions so they can return to living comfortably without ongoing throat discomfort. Click here to make an enquiry.