Sore Throat (Gala Kharab): Causes, Home Remedies and When to See a Doctor

It starts with a scratch at the back of your throat. By evening every swallow feels like a mouthful of glass, and by morning you are wondering whether you need antibiotics. A sore throat (gala kharab, gale mein dard) is one of the most common reasons people visit a pharmacy, especially when the weather turns cold.

The good news is that most sore throats are mild and clear up on their own. This guide explains what is behind them, what actually brings relief, which products can help, and the signs that mean you should see a doctor.

What causes a sore throat?

• Viruses are behind most sore throats, including colds and flu. These do not need antibiotics.
• Bacteria, most often group A streptococcus (strep throat), cause a smaller share. This needs a doctor’s assessment and sometimes antibiotics.
• Tonsillitis, where the tonsils are swollen and sometimes coated with white spots.
• Dry air, smog and smoke, which irritate the throat lining. See our smog protection guide.
• Allergies and postnasal drip, where mucus runs down the back of the throat. Read about dust allergy and allergic rhinitis.
• Acid reflux, which can cause a burning throat and a hoarse voice in the morning.
• Shouting, singing or talking for long hours, which strains the voice.
• Cold drinks, ice cream and fried food: many families blame these. They do not cause infection, but they can irritate a throat that is already inflamed.

Viral or bacterial?

You cannot be sure without an exam, but some clues help. A sore throat with a runny nose, cough, sneezing and hoarseness is usually viral. A sudden, severe sore throat with fever, swollen glands in the neck, white patches on the tonsils and no cough is more likely to be strep. A doctor may do a quick throat swab to check.

What helps at home

• Gargle with warm salt water several times a day. It reduces swelling and clears mucus.
• Drink warm fluids: soup, herbal tea, plain tea or warm water. Keep sipping through the day.
• Honey in warm water or tea coats the throat. It is fine for adults and for children over one year. Never give honey to a baby under 12 months.
• Rest your voice and avoid whispering, which strains it more than speaking softly.
• Add moisture to the air with a bowl of water near the heater, or a humidifier.
• Stay away from smoke, incense and strong fumes.
• Use an extra pillow at night if reflux or mucus is part of the problem.

Products that can ease a sore throat

Read the label on each product and follow the directions.

• Lozenges keep the throat moist and give short-term comfort. Cofmint Lozenges are a herbal option. Do not give lozenges to young children because of the choking risk.
• Gargles and rinses such as Pyodine Gargle Mouth Wash or Niflam Mouth Wash are used for sore mouth and throat. Do not swallow them.
• Herbal throat syrups such as Toot Siah and Mulathi are traditional soothers for a scratchy throat and tickly cough.
• Honey: Qarshi Honey is handy to keep in the kitchen.
• Pain and fever relief: paracetamol or ibuprofen can ease the pain and bring down a temperature. Check the pack for age limits, and avoid ibuprofen if you have a stomach ulcer, kidney problems or asthma unless your doctor agrees.

See more in our cold and congestion and cough categories.

Do I need antibiotics?

Usually not. Antibiotics do not work against viruses, and taking them without need leads to resistance and side effects. If a doctor diagnoses strep throat and prescribes antibiotics, finish the whole course even if you feel better. This matters a lot in children, because untreated strep can lead to rheumatic fever, which damages the heart valves.

When to see a doctor

• Trouble breathing, noisy breathing, or difficulty swallowing saliva. This is an emergency.
• Drooling in a child, or a child who refuses to drink.
• A very painful throat on one side, with a muffled voice or difficulty opening the mouth.
• A fever above 38.5 degrees Celsius that lasts more than two or three days.
• White patches or pus on the tonsils with fever.
• A sore throat that lasts longer than a week, or hoarseness longer than two weeks.
• A rash with the sore throat.
• Repeated sore throats, or blood in the saliva.

If you are also coughing, see our guides to flu season in Pakistan and fever in children.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a sore throat last?

Viral sore throats usually settle within three to seven days. Strep throat improves quickly once antibiotics start.

Are cold drinks bad for a sore throat?

They do not cause infection. If cold drinks hurt, choose warm ones. If cold feels soothing, a little ice cream or an ice chip is fine.

Is a sore throat contagious?

Yes, if it is caused by an infection. Wash hands often, do not share cups, and stay home while you have a fever.

Can smoking make it worse?

Yes. Smoke irritates the throat lining and slows recovery.

You can order throat care and cold remedies from Khasmart, with delivery across Pakistan.

This article is for general information and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. It does not include dosage; always follow the directions on the pack or from your doctor.