See a Doctor for Sore throat in Istanbul Airport: Video Visit and Prescription, Day or Night
Unwell with sore throat in Istanbul Airport? Our 24/7 on-call doctor assesses you online, explains your options and sends your e-prescription to a pharmacy in Istanbul.
At a glance
| Availability | Day and night |
|---|---|
| Format | Video visit, hotel visit in selected areas |
| You receive | E-prescription if appropriate |
| Destination | Istanbul Airport, Istanbul |
| Best for | Travellers, tourists and expats |
Istanbul Airport: local notes for sore throat
Istanbul Airport is a major hub, so layover travellers often need advice quickly between flights. Dust, traffic fumes and dry hot air in busy streets irritate the throat. Sip water commonly and use lozenges.
Travel guide to Istanbul Airport
Trip for travellers: Istanbul Airport is best explored on foot, with cafes, markets and historic sights close together. Allow time for shopping and use ferries or taxis between sights.
About sore throat
A sore throat, whether pharyngitis or tonsillitis, brings pain, rawness or scratchiness that is normally sharper when you swallow. The cause is mostly viral; bacteria like streptococcus account for fewer cases.
Why sore throat happens
Colds and flu viruses, bacterial infection, dry air from air conditioning, allergies and irritants such as cigarette smoke can all inflame the throat.
Symptoms of sore throat
- Red or swollen throat and tonsils
- Hoarse voice
- Pain when swallowing
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Fever
Prevention tips
Wash hands often, avoid sharing drinks and cutlery, stay hydrated and avoid smoky places and very dry air conditioning.
Getting sore throat treated in Istanbul Airport
The physician reviews your symptoms and any signs of throat infection, decides if an antibiotic is likely to help and advises on pain relief and rest. Treatment can involve pain relief, lozenges and, only if a bacterial cause is likely, antibiotics.
- Simple painkillers as directed on the pack
- Warm drinks, honey and lozenges
- Rest your voice and stay hydrated
From message to medicine in Istanbul Airport
- Send a request or message us on WhatsApp and tell us where you are staying in Istanbul Airport.
- Speak to the on-demand doctor by video, who assesses your symptoms.
- Receive an e-prescription by WhatsApp or email if treatment is appropriate.
- Pick up the medicine at a local pharmacy.
If you think it is an emergency, call 112 straight away. Video consultations are not meant for urgent life-threatening problems.
Questions travellers ask
Can I get sore throat treatment in Istanbul Airport?
Yes. Our on-call physician works around the clock, and a prescription, if needed, can be filled in Istanbul Airport the same day.
When should I see a doctor in person for sore throat?
Get in-person care for trouble breathing or swallowing, drooling, a muffled voice with severe pain, a stiff neck, marked swelling on one side of the throat, or symptoms lasting more than about a week.
Which languages does the doctor speak?
Dr. Elif Yasbala consults in English, German and Turkish.
What should I have ready for the video visit?
Your passport details, the name of your hotel or address in Istanbul Airport, a list of your medicines and allergies, and photos if there is a rash, wound or eye problem.
Can I fly home with sore throat?
The doctor tells you if flying is safe. Where an airline requires proof, we can arrange a fit to fly certificate.
Other common problems in Istanbul Airport
References
- NHS. Sore throat
Reviewed by Dr. Elif Yasbala, MD. General information only; it does not replace medical advice.
What We Treat in Istanbul Airport
Doctors for sore throat elsewhere in Istanbul
Read the full guide to sore throat · Medical help in Istanbul Airport