Could be a sign of labour. You do feel a lot of pressure in your rectal area. Try gargle some salt water or even try manuka honey and lemon in hot water (tastes so much nicer than salt water)
Lemon juice and honey is good to drink for the sure throat. Gargle with warm salt water as well.
All the best during your delivery.
I cannot say anything about labor as I am only 5 months with my first child. Early on in my pregnancy my husband had the flu and then I started feeling symptoms so I called my dr. I spoke with the nurse and she said I can take Robitussin for cough or sore throat, Tylenol for headaches and Claritin for allergies. Being that you are so close to labor I would suggest at least calling and speaking to a nurse.
I had pressure like I had to poop when I had my daughter in 2013 come to find out I was 4cm dilated now I'm 5 months and 4 days with my son due 5-20-16..
I had lots of rectal pain and pressure when I went into labor, so you could be very close :) Good luck!