Sore throat (pharyngitis)

Pharyngitis is normally a symptom of a bacterial or viral infection and is common with a cold or flu. Here's how to care for a sore throat.

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Throat diseases

Links to artciles about throat diseases.

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Strep throat

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

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Fever

A high temperature is a normal response to infection and can be a common sign of a cold or flu. Learn about how to take a temperature reading and self-care advice.

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Group A streptococcal disease

Group A streptococcal disease is a bacterial infection generally treated with antibiotics. Symptoms include a sore throat and skin sores. Learn more here.

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Tonsillitis

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

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Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is a bacterial throat infection that usually affects primary school-aged children. Find out about its symptoms as well as treatments and preventions.

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Colds

A cold is a viral infection that affects the nose, the throat and upper airways. Find out more about the common cold.

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Adenoidectomy

Adenoidectomy is the removal of the adenoids, small lumps of tissue at the back of the nose in children. The adenoids can cause problems if they get infected.

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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 to help prevent them from developing and spreading a cold.

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Glandular fever

Glandular fever (also called the ‘kissing disease’) is an infectious disease which is common in teenagers and young adults. Learn how glandular fever can be spread.

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Caring for people with COVID-19

Frequently asked questions about caring for someone with COVID-19 (coronavirus).

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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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Otitis media (middle ear infection)

Otitis media (middle ear infection) is common and often disappears by itself. Know how to recognise the symptoms and when it might need 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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Rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever is a serious inflammatory disease that affects the body's connective tissues, especially those of the heart, joints, brain and skin.

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Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral illness that mainly affects children under 5 years old, but can sometimes affect older children and adults.

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Hand, foot and mouth disease symptoms

How to look for the signs and symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease, as well as a more serious infection.

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Hand, foot and mouth disease diagnosis

Your doctor can usually diagnose hand, foot and mouth disease based on age, symptoms and the appearance of sores. Laboratory tests, such as blood tests, are not usually needed.

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Flu (influenza)

The flu is a viral infection affecting your nose, throat and sometimes your lungs. It is typically more severe than a cold. Find out more about the flu.

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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 day-care or school. Learn about school exclusion periods here.

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Tonsillectomy

A tonsillectomy is surgery to remove the tonsils. It is a safe procedure and is performed under general anaesthetic.

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Antibiotic resistance

Here’s important information about what antibiotics treat and don’t treat, an explanation of 'superbugs' and how antibiotic resistance can be reduced.

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Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a rare infectious bacterial disease that usually affects the nose and throat. Learn more about its vaccination, symptoms and how it spreads.

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Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM)

Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), also called amoebic meningitis, is a rare, but serious disease that leads to inflammation of the brain.

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Pityriasis rosea

Pityriasis rosea is a pink, scaly and inflamed skin rash. Cool baths can help soothe the skin; sunlight can help fade the rash. Learn more here.

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Swollen glands

Glands are part of the lymphatic system and can become swollen for different reasons. Learn more about the causes and treatment for swollen glands.

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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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Looking after a sick child

Mild illnesses are common in children, but knowing about symptoms will help you care for your child and know whether their condition is more serious.

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Cough

Most coughs are caused by viruses which inflame the throat, windpipe or lungs. Here are some tips to relieve a chesty, dry or persistent cough.

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