Sore throat (pharyngitis)

Pharyngitis is a symptom of a bacterial or viral infection and common with a cold or flu. Learn how to care for a sore throat and when to see a doctor.

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Strep throat

Strep throat is an infection of your throat caused by streptococci bacteria. Learn more about what it is, and its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

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Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an infection and swelling of the tonsils at the back of the throat. Learn about the symptoms and treatments for tonsillitis.

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Glandular fever

Glandular fever (also called 'kissing disease') is an infectious disease common in teenagers and young adults. Learn how glandular fever can spread.

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Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is a bacterial throat infection usually affecting primary school-aged children. Find out about its symptoms, treatments and prevention.

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Coughs and colds in children

Most coughs and colds in children are caused by viruses. Find out how to treat your child and prevent them from developing and spreading a cold.

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Tonsil stones

Tonsil stones are small lumps of hardened material that form in the tonsils when debris builds up. Learn about 'tonsilloliths' symptoms and treatment.

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Throat cancer

Throat cancer can be treated if diagnosed early so you should see a doctor if you're concerned. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment here.

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Colds

A cold is an infection that affects your nose and throat. Find out about the common cold, including symptoms, treatment and when to see your doctor.

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Adenoidectomy

Adenoidectomy is the removal of the adenoids, lumps of tissue at the back of the nose. Find out more about adenoidectomy and recovery in children.

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Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines

Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are medicines you can buy without needing a prescription. OT medicines can cause side effects and drug interactions.

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Cold or flu? (infographic)

Can't tell if you've got the cold or the flu? This infographic helps you compare cold and flu symptoms, debunk the most common myths.

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Respiratory viruses

Respiratory viruses affect your respiratory system. You’re usually most contagious in the first few days you have symptoms.

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School exclusion periods

If your child has an infectious illness, you may need to keep them home to stop it spreading at daycare or school. Learn about school exclusion periods here.

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Group A streptococcal infection

Group A streptococcal (GAS) infection is a bacterial infection. Find out about the symptoms and treatment for GAS infection, and how to prevent it.

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Diphtheria

Diphtheria is an infectious disease that usually affects your nose and throat. Learn more about diphtheria symptoms, treatment and vaccination.

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Rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever is a serious, inflammatory disease caused by Strep A bacteria. Learn more about how you can prevent and treat rheumatic fever.

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Rheumatic heart disease

Rheumatic heart disease is when your heart valves are damaged by rheumatic fever. Learn more about how this can be prevented and treated.

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General anaesthetic

A general anaesthetic is used to make you unconscious so you will not feel pain, move or be aware during surgery. Risks include nausea or tiredness.

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Post-nasal drip

Post-nasal drip is when mucus drips down your throat, causing a cough. Treat by addressing the cause and staying hydrated.

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Runny nose

Runny nose, also called rhinorrhoea, can be caused by things like allergies, colds and flu. Learn how to treat and prevent a runny nose.

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Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral illness mainly affecting children under 10 years old but sometimes affecting older children and adults.

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Laryngitis

Laryngitis is when your voice box (larynx) becomes inflamed, and your vocal cords become swollen. Most people recover without treatment.

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Medicines and breastfeeding

While most medicines are safe to take while breastfeeding, some can affect your baby. Learn out more about medicines and breastfeeding here.

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Upper GI endoscopy (child)

An upper GI endoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if your child has a problem with the upper part of their digestive system.

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Transbronchial biopsy

A transbronchial biopsy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem in your lungs.

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Laryngoscopy

A laryngoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with your larynx.

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General anaesthetic (child)

A general anaesthetic is usually a safe and effective way for your child to have an operation or procedure. Most children do not have any problems.

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Flu (influenza)

Influenza is a viral infection that affects your nose and throat. Find out more about the flu and how to protect yourself by getting vaccinated.

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Looking after a sick child

Mild illnesses are common in children. Learn how to care for your child and know when their condition is more serious and you need medical help.

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