Hello ,

Thanks for the query. I am happy to help you with your question.

Common causes for a sore throat include post nasal drip, a viral sore throat and stomach acid reflux. less commonly, especially in a 68 year old, a bacteria, such as strep is the cause. Swollen glands, slight fever, body aches and cough suggest an infection. This constellation, including the sore throat, is most consistent with a viral infection. Viral infections go away by themselves over time. If this end up being the diagnosis, then supportive measures are indicated, including rest, fluids, lozenges to sooth the throat and pain relievers. You can discuss this with your mother's treating doctor, as only he or she can make an actual diagnosis and recommend treatment.

I hope I have answered your query. I will be available to answer your follow up queries. If you are satisfied with all my answer, please do not forget to accept it.

Best regards,
Dr. Schwartz

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Hello again XXXXXXX

I am happy to answer your question. Of course, recommending a remedy depends on an accurate diagnosis, which is beyond the scope of this forum. Having said that however, if one's diagnosis is viral infection of the throat (viral pharyngitis) then remedies include over the counter analgesics, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxyn (Aleve), assuming the patient has no intolerance or allergies to the drug and there is no history of gastrointestinal bleeding (for the latter two, but not an issue with acetaminophen). This can be combined with a good lozenge that contains an anesthetic, such as Sucrets.

I Wish you Good Health. If you are satisfied with my response, then please do not forget to accept it.

Dr. J. Schwartz

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