Sore throat

  • Throat infection
  • pharyngitis
  • tonsillitis
  • A sore throat will normally get better on its own within 10 days.
  • It is often caused by a cold virus. 
  • Drinking cold water regularly can ease the pain.
  • Sucking on a sweet can also ease the pain.
  • For severe pain, take enough paracetamol at set times. 
  • Antibiotics usually do not help against a sore throat. They also have disadvantages. Read more about use of medication in the Netherlands.
  • Sometimes a sore throat can be caused by coronavirus. See coronavirus (in Dutch).
  • Dutch healthcare practices in general may differ from what you are used to in your home country. Learn more.

What is your situation?