Sore throats are common at this time of year, but with the Omicron variant many more of us are suffering with the ailment than usual.
A number of the signs and symptoms of the new variant are similar to a common cold, according to data from ZOE, the world's largest data study into the virus.
Using the most recent data from London, where Omicron prevalence is higher than other regions of the UK, ZOE data scientists analysed symptom data from positive cases recorded.
READ MORE: Four Omicron symptoms in children you should never ignore
The top five symptoms reported were a runny nose, headache, fatigue, sneezing and a sore throat.
A New York-based ER doctor also said many fully vaccinated people with covid were reporting a sore throat.
Taking to Twitter, Doctor Craig Spencer said: "Every patient I’ve seen with covid that’s had a third ‘booster’ dose has had mild symptoms.
"By mild I mean mostly sore throat. Lots of sore throat.
"Also some fatigue, maybe some muscle pain. No difficulty breathing. No shortness of breath. All a little uncomfortable, but fine."
Those who are experiencing mild symptoms with covid should treat themselves at home - though you should seek medical advice if:
- you're feeling gradually more unwell or more breathless
- you have difficulty breathing when you stand up or move around
- you feel very weak, achy or tired
- you're shaking or shivering
- you've lost your appetite
- you're unable to care for yourself – for example, tasks like washing and dressing or making food are too difficult
- you still feel unwell after 4 weeks – this may be long covid
Whether you're experiencing a sore throat due to coronavirus, or another winter bug, there are a number of things you can do at home to help.
Hot drinks
According to Holland and Barrett, one of the best and easiest remedies for sore throats may already be in your kitchen cupboard.
Try adding honey, lemon and ginger to hot water or tea to calm your throat.
Gargle salty water
Gargling with warm, salty water can ease inflammation in your throat - though the NHS says children should not do this.
Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, gargle with the solution and then spit it out.
You can repeat this as often as you like but it's important you don't swallow the solution.
Avoid smoking or smoky places
This may seem obvious but smoking or being in smoky environments and smoking can further aggravate already-sore throats.
Eat cool, cold or soft foods
Foods such as ice cream, soup or mashed potatoes can be easier on your throat than things like crisps or spicy foods.
Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated is important at all times, but especially when you're feeling under the weather.
Drinking enough water helps the body’s organs and muscles work properly.
Rest
Proper rest can boost your immune system to get you feeling better sooner, as sleep helps your body better fight infections that cause you to become unwell.
Medicine
There are a number of medicines you can take to help ease a sore throat.
These include paracetamol or ibuprofen, as well as medicated lozenges containing a local anaesthetic, antiseptic, or anti-inflammatory medicine.
If you are worried about your health or medical condition, please speak to your GP or call 111.
Dial 999 if you or your child:
- have difficulty swallowing or breathing
- are drooling – this can be a sign of not being able to swallow
- are making a high-pitched sound as you breathe (called stridor)
- have severe symptoms and are getting worse quickly
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