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Suggest Treatment For Persistent Sore Throat
Question: Hi.....I have has a sore throat for weeks.....should I see my doctor? I should also mention that I am a smoker
Brief Answer:
would be best to be seen
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Yes, you should be seen.
The sore throat may not be due to any serious condition but this should be ruled out.
Most common causes are: (A) infection- either viral or bacterial but this would not last for weeks usually
(B) trauma- you would be able to recall a history of trauma eg food stuck
(C) post nasal drip due to allergies- this can cause a sore throat that can persist for a few weeks
It can vary in its intensity at different points.
(D) cancer- if there is a long standing history of smoking, this should definitely be ruled out
Your doctor will need to take a look at your throat to determine the cause.
He or she may suggest referral to an ENT doctor who would be able to take a more detailed look in the throat if no obvious cause can be found.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
would be best to be seen
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Yes, you should be seen.
The sore throat may not be due to any serious condition but this should be ruled out.
Most common causes are: (A) infection- either viral or bacterial but this would not last for weeks usually
(B) trauma- you would be able to recall a history of trauma eg food stuck
(C) post nasal drip due to allergies- this can cause a sore throat that can persist for a few weeks
It can vary in its intensity at different points.
(D) cancer- if there is a long standing history of smoking, this should definitely be ruled out
Your doctor will need to take a look at your throat to determine the cause.
He or she may suggest referral to an ENT doctor who would be able to take a more detailed look in the throat if no obvious cause can be found.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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