What's Going Around: Sore Throats And Allergies

Flu isn't the only thing still going around. This week our doctors and nurses from the Muscogee Creek Nation Department of Health say they're seeing patients with sore throats in Okmulgee.

Kim Jenkins, a Family Nurse Practitioner at the Muscogee Creek Nation Express Care Clinic said most are caused by viral infections and can be treated with over the counter pain relievers, throat lozenges, warm salt water gargles or antihistamines.

Sore throats caused by bacterial infections, such as strep and whooping cough, require a prescription from your doctor.

You should see your doctor if your sore throat is severe and lasts longer than a week, if you also develop a rash, have a fever higher than 101, hoarseness lasting longer than 2 weeks, joint pain or swelling in neck and if you see white patches on your tonsils.

Your allergies could be causing your sore throat as well. Dr. Kathryn Zackery at the Sapulpa Indian Health Center said allergies are a biggie right now because of the changing weather, and the wind and the budding of trees and flowers.

Allergies can cause itchy eyes, headaches or dark circles under your eyes.

Anti-histamines work for runny noses and so does a nasal saline if used several times a day. If symptoms continue you might go see your doctor since some allergies can cause sinus infections.