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.