Q27. My child has a sore throat; do I need to see my GP?

A27. This depends upon the cause of the sore throat and the extent of the symptoms.

If your child’s sore throat is caused by a cold or infection then very often this will clear up by itself. In other cases it can be treated at home.

If your child’s symptoms persist for longer then a couple of weeks; have worsened or your child is finding difficult to breathe or swallow then speak to your GP.

If your child cannot breathe then telephone for an ambulance as this requires emergency treatment. Do not attempt to treat this yourself.

Speak to your GP or health visitor if you are at all worried.

For further information visit our sore throat in children section.

FAQS Index : Sore throat FAQ

Sore throat FAQs

1. What does the throat consist of?
2. What does the throat do?
3. What is the larynx?
4. What are the tonsils?
5. How do the vocal cords work?
6. What enables us to speak?
7. Why do we get a sore throat?
8. Can you treat a sore throat with antibiotics?
9. Why does my child get lots of sore throats?
10. What is diphtheria?
11. What is croup?
12. What is quinsy?
13. What is acid reflux?
14. What is strep throat?
15. What is the difference between a viral throat infection and a bacterial throat infection?

16. Why do children have frequent episodes of tonsillitis?
17. What are adenoids?
18. Do you need to have your tonsils removed?
19. What are the different types of throat cancer?
20. What causes throat cancer?
21. How is throat cancer treated?
22. Can oral sex damage the throat?
23. What effect does your lifestyle have on your throat?
24. Why are singers prone to throat problems?
25. Why does being overweight affect your throat?
26. Can you treat a sore throat at home?
27. My child has a sore throat; do I need to see my GP?
28. What causes someone to lose their voice?
29. Can you prevent a sore throat?
30. Why is it important to look after your throat?