How much pain medication is appropriate?

[flummiball]

Three days ago I started coughing a little bit and then quickly got a sore throat. It has since been hurting very much to swallow and talk or even be awake. I have no doubt, that this is no more than the common cold with a mean face.
My problem is with handling my pain medication. I usually take one Tramadol ( 50 mg ) a day for a somewhat chronic pain in my neck, back and shoulders, since I cannot afford physical therapy at the time. Yesterday I took a lot of Ibuprofen and Paracetamol instead, because I had an important exam at the University and didn't want to be groggy.
I am concerned, when to start taking Tramadol again or going with the combination of Ibuprofen and Paracetamol instead, since Ibuprofen also has an effect on inflammations.
Am I taking to much? What would be appropriate here and how much would be 'healthy'?

[flummiball]

The pain has pretty much subsided. All that´s left is a little headache, a cough and a dry mouth. Otherwise I´m fine. Thank you all for your help.

[Tuckamore]

Weathergirl, Thanks for catching that. I absolutely KNOW that Tramadol does NOT contain Acetaminophen (Paracetamol). I mis-spoke and am glad that you caught it.

Flummiball, I still repeat my suggestion to consult with your PCP. Hope you are doing today?

~Tuck

[Weathergirl21]

Just FYI...but Tramadol is just the generic name for Ultram...It does not contain Acetaminophen...

Ultracet does which is Tramadol plus Acetaminophen...

OP...you should definitely give a quick call to your Dr. and/or Pharmacist to find out what medicines they want you to be taking and when..

[Tuckamore]

I encourage you to consult with your Pharmacist. They are the experts and able to help you with doses amd so forth.

Jaybay offered good suggestions and is correct, Tramadol also contains Paracetamol. Be cautious and talk to that Pharmacist.

Good Luck to you,
~Tuck

[Jaybay]

You may have a strep or other throat infection, in which case, you won't get better without antibiotics.  You should see your doctor.

Since tramadol already contains paracetamol, don't supplement with more of it.  Stick with the ibuprofen or any other anti-inflammatory that doesn't contain paracetamol. And don't forget things like metholated cough drops. They won't cure your sore throat but they can at least make it feel a bit better.  If you don't like the menthol, try Altoids mints.  They're so strong they might at least take your mind off the misery for a while.  :-)