NHS Pharmacy First
Sore throat treatment in Clapham
Most sore throats get better on their own within a week. If yours is severe or not improving, our pharmacist can check whether it could be a bacterial infection that needs treatment.
Who we can treatAdults and children aged 5 and over
AppointmentWalk in or book ahead
GP referralNot needed
Common symptoms
- A painful, scratchy throat, especially when swallowing
- Swollen or red tonsils, sometimes with white spots
- A high temperature (fever)
- Swollen glands in your neck
- No cough or cold symptoms (this can point to a bacterial infection)
How we can help
- Advice on pain relief, lozenges and throat sprays
- A quick check using the same scoring system GPs use
- Antibiotics, only if the infection is likely to be bacterial
The pharmacist will decide what is right for you. Not everyone needs medicine, and some people may need to see a GP instead.
Things you can try at home
- Drink plenty of fluids and rest
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen if suitable for you
- Gargle with warm salty water (adults only)
- Suck lozenges, ice cubes or ice lollies (not for young children)
Get urgent help if
- Difficulty breathing or making a high-pitched sound when breathing
- Difficulty swallowing, or drooling
- A muffled voice or being unable to open your mouth properly
- Feeling very unwell or getting worse quickly
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 in an emergency.
Other conditions we treat
Visiting us
148 Clapham High Street, SW4 7UH. Mon–Fri 9am–6pm, Sat 9am–5pm. Step-free access and a private consultation room.
148 Clapham High Street, SW4 7UH. Mon–Fri 9am–6pm, Sat 9am–5pm. Step-free access and a private consultation room.
Think you have a sore throat?
Walk in during opening hours or book a time – our pharmacist will see you in private.