Should I go to the hospital when I have a sore throat? A complete guide from causes to treatment and choosing a hospital

The unwelcome guest that always appears during seasonal changes: when you have a sore throat.

 

Sharp pain when swallowing, hoarseness, cough, and fever...

It's a symptom everyone has experienced at least once, but there are many times when you're confused whether it's a simple cold, tonsillitis, or a more serious problem.

 

 

If neck pain persists, don't just endure it at home; it's important to visit a hospital for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

 

In this article, I will cover everything from symptoms and causes of sore throat, how to choose the right hospital, treatment methods, and the possibility of complete recovery.

 

Common symptoms when sore throat occurs

 

Pain when swallowing saliva
- Foreign body sensation in the throat
Hoarse voice
Dry cough
- Accompanied by fever and headache
- Cannot speak

 

If these symptoms last for more than three days or worsen gradually, you must see a doctor.

 

 

Causes of a sore throat

 

Tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis
Sore throat, fever, and severe pain when speaking or swallowing caused by viral or bacterial infections.

 

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Stomach acid rising into the esophagus or throat causes pain. In this case, dry cough persists for a long time, and there is little to no fever.

 

Tonsil stones, tonsil hypertrophy
If foreign substances get stuck in the tonsils or the tonsils enlarge, you may feel a tingling, uncomfortable sensation along with pain.

 

Postnasal drip syndrome
It feels like mucus is going down the back of my throat, causing irritation, and I think I have phlegm stuck, with a persistent cough.

 

How to choose a hospital when you have a sore throat?

 

Most sore throats require an otolaryngology consultation.
Since the bone structure is complex and sensitive, it is most accurate for a specialist to observe directly using endoscopy or similar methods.

Please refer to the following criteria when choosing a hospital:

 

Is it a hospital with extensive experience in treating throat diseases?
- Whether the equipment such as laryngoscopes and endoscopes is well equipped
- Do you specialize in treating various conditions such as tonsillitis and reflux esophagitis?
- Whether the treatment review or satisfaction is good

 

 

Effective treatments for sore throat

 

1. Medication treatment – taking antibiotics, painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, etc., as needed
2. Drink warm water frequently – at least 1.5 liters a day, gradually.
3. Gargle – rinse frequently with mouthwash or saltwater.
4. Adequate rest and sleep – essential for immune system recovery
5. Wearing masks and scarves – protecting the neck when going out
6. Hoarseness – Speaking softly is also hard on the throat.

 

Can a sore throat be completely cured?

 

Most cases recover well with medication and rest.
However, in cases like the following, surgery should also be considered:

 

Recurrent tonsillitis more than three times a year
Chronic laryngitis with symptoms persisting for several months
- When gastroesophageal reflux disease does not improve well

 

Early diagnosis is important because active treatment may be necessary.

 

● What are the consultation and medication costs when you have a sore throat?

 

ENT consultation fee: 7,000 to 20,000 won (with insurance coverage)
- Medication cost: 5,000 to 10,000 won
- The cost will increase if you have an endoscopy examination or procedure.

 

● Hospital visit reviews and tips

 

Many people neglect their sore throats.
They also leave reviews saying, "Eventually, I developed vocal cord nodules," and "I even had surgery."

 

Go to the hospital early to receive an accurate diagnosis.
If you respond quickly, such situations can be fully prevented.

 

 

● Conclusion

 

Don't just endure it when your throat hurts.
If left untreated, it can become chronic and make treatment more complicated.

Getting diagnosed at the ENT department and starting the appropriate medication and treatment for the cause is the fastest way to recover.

 

Especially if fever, hoarseness, and pain when swallowing persist
Don't delay any longer, make sure to visit the hospital!

 

 

 

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