How to manage a sore throat after vomiting?

Managing Sore Throat After Vomiting

For sore throat after vomiting, ibuprofen or paracetamol are recommended as first-line treatments for symptom relief. 1, 2

First-Line Treatment Options

• Ibuprofen appears to have slightly better efficacy than paracetamol for pain relief, particularly after 2 hours of administration 2, 3
• Both medications are considered safe when used according to directions for short-term treatment of sore throat pain 2
• The recommended dosing should follow standard guidelines for these medications 1
• Systemic analgesics like ibuprofen, paracetamol, and flurbiprofen are all valid treatment options, though ibuprofen shows the best benefit-risk profile 4

Mechanism of Sore Throat After Vomiting

• Sore throat following vomiting is typically caused by irritation from stomach acid coming in contact with the pharyngeal tissues 5
• Unlike infectious pharyngitis, this type of sore throat is mechanical/chemical in nature and doesn't require antimicrobial treatment 5

Additional Supportive Measures

• Maintaining adequate hydration can help soothe irritated throat tissues 2
• Local anesthetics with confirmed efficacy in clinical trials (lidocaine, benzocaine, or ambroxol) can be considered for topical relief 4
• Avoid irritating foods and beverages until symptoms improve 2

What NOT to Use

• Antibiotics should not be used for sore throat after vomiting, as this is not an infectious condition 1, 6
• Zinc gluconate is not recommended due to conflicting efficacy results and increased adverse effects 1, 2
• There is inconsistent evidence supporting herbal treatments and acupuncture for sore throat relief 1, 2
• Local antibiotics or antiseptics are not recommended due to lack of efficacy data 2, 4

Special Considerations

• If sore throat persists beyond 2-3 days after vomiting has resolved, consider evaluation for other causes 5
• For severe symptoms, flurbiprofen 8.75 mg lozenges can provide effective relief of sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and sensation of throat swelling 7
• Corticosteroids are not routinely recommended unless there are signs of severe inflammation (which would be unusual after vomiting alone) 1

When to Seek Further Medical Attention

• If sore throat is accompanied by inability to swallow liquids 5
• If symptoms persist beyond 3-4 days despite appropriate analgesic use 5
• If there are signs of more serious conditions (high fever, severe pain, visible abscess) 5