A sore throat is usually caused by viral infections and settles within a week. Severe pain, difficulty swallowing liquids, or persistent symptoms may need a doctor to rule out strep throat or other treatable causes.
A sore throat is usually caused by viral infections and settles within a week.
A sore throat is usually caused by viral infections and settles within a week.
Most sore throats are viral — linked to colds, flu, or COVID-19. Bacterial streptococcal infection causes a minority of cases but benefits from targeted treatment. Dry air, shouting, and allergies can also irritate the throat.
Seek urgent care for difficulty breathing, drooling, inability to swallow liquids, or severe one-sided throat swelling. See a doctor for fever above 38.5°C lasting more than 48 hours, white patches on tonsils, or symptoms beyond one week.
For sore throat, a general physician is often the appropriate starting point. They can examine you, order relevant tests, and refer to another specialist if needed. View available doctors.
Doctors examine the throat and neck glands and may perform a rapid strep test or throat swab when bacterial infection is suspected. This helps avoid unnecessary antibiotics for viral sore throats.
Viral sore throats improve with rest, warm fluids, and pain relief as advised by a pharmacist or doctor. Bacterial strep throat requires prescribed antibiotics — completing the full course is important.
Most sore throats are viral and do not need antibiotics. A doctor can determine whether testing for bacterial strep throat is appropriate before prescribing antibiotics.
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