Sore Throat: Medical History

Medical history (history of illness) represents an important component in the diagnosis of sore throat.

Family history

  • What is the general health of your family members?
  • Are there any diseases in your family that are common?

Social history

  • What is your profession?
  • Are you exposed to harmful working substances in your profession?
  • Do you have much contact with other people? (Question due toRisk of infection)
  • Are you exposed to dust pollution?
  • Are you often in an environment where there is degraded humidity?

Current medical history/systemic history (somatic and psychological complaints).

  • How long has the sore throat been present?
  • Do you have additional symptoms such as coughing, difficulty swallowing or a scratchy throat?
  • Do you have a fever? If so, for how long and what is the temperature?
  • Have you ever noticed mucosal changes in the mouth?

Vegetative anamnesis including nutritional anamnesis.

  • Have you lost body weight? Please tell us your body weight (in kg) and height (in cm).
  • Do you smoke? If yes, how many cigarettes, cigars or pipes per day?
  • Do you drink alcohol? If yes, what drink(s) and how many glasses per day?

Self history incl. medication history.

  • Pre-existing conditions (respiratory diseases, infections).
  • Operations
  • Allergies
  • Medication history