Sore throat and headache are common symptoms that may occur together, like with the flu or allergies.
Asore throatis pain or scratchiness of the throat, whereas aheadacheis pain or discomfort in the head or face.
This article will review the health conditions associated with a sore throat and headache.
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It will also explore the treatment and possible prevention of these conditions.
The discomfort or pain can be mild or severe and may worsen with swallowing or talking.
Sinus headaches cause dull pain or pressure in the forehead, cheeks, or behind the eyes.
The pain often worsens when the affected person bends forward or lies down.
Most headaches are not dangerous except in rare instances.
A few health conditions can cause both sore throat and headache.
Viral Infections
Viral infectionsare illnesses you get from a tiny germ called a virus.
Bacterial Infections
Certain bacterial infections cause a sore throat and headache.
Group AStreptococcusinfection of the throat, which may involve the tonsils, is known asstrep throat.
It occurs inup to 30% of children and 15% of adults with sore throats.
Meningitisis inflammation of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord (meninges).
It classically causes fever, neck stiffness, and headache.
The meningitis headache is severe, felt all over the head, and may resemble a migraine.
These cold-like symptoms are more typical of viral vs. bacterial meningitis.
Postnasal drip can cause a sore throat in allergic rhinitis.
Nasal congestion with allergic rhinitis can trigger a headache.
Sometimes, the headache associated with allergic rhinitis mimics that of a migraine.
For example, NSAIDs can increase a person’s risk of stomach bleeding, heart attack, and stroke.
Besides OTC pain relievers, various home remedies can help soothe throat pain.
These include throat lozenges containing a numbing agent likebenzocaineand lemon tea mixed with honey.
For instance, a person with strep throat needs an antibiotic like Amoxil (amoxicillin).
As with sore throats, the root cause of the headache may require treatment with a prescription drug.
For example, a person with meningitis requires treatment with intravenous (IV) antibiotics or antiviral drugs.
Likewise, a steroid nasal spray like Flonase (fluticasone propionate) is best for treating allergy-related symptoms.
In some cases, a particular punch in of headache medication is needed to relieve severe or persistent headaches.
For instance, a person with severe migraine may require a triptan, such as Imitrex (sumatriptan).
What About Young Children?
It’s essential to talk with a pediatrician if your child is experiencing a sore throat and headache.
The above treatments may not be appropriate for them.
Washing your hands and staying updated on vaccinations are also preventive strategies.
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