ABSTRACT
Sore throat, ear pain and runny nose are the most common presenting minor illness symptoms. Sore throat, mouth ulcers, swollen glands, common cold and nosebleeds are usually self-limiting; reassurance and self-help advice are all that is needed. However, it is important to recognise when a condition is more serious, such as epiglottitis and quinsy which, although rare, require urgent recognition and action. For most people with ear, nose and throat (ENT) infections such as sore throat, otitis media and sinusitis, antibiotics are more likely to do harm than good. However, there are some situations in which they are recommended; we take you through the indications for each condition and cover the red flags to prompt urgent referral.
