Sore Throat

What causes a sore throat?

Most of the time, a sore throat is caused by a viral infection, such as a cold or flu. Bacteria such as streptococcal pharyngitis, or strep throat, also cause a sore throat. 

What other symptoms accompany a sore throat?

An infection in your throat can make it feel scratchy, irritated, and difficult to swallow. Depending on the cause of your sore throat, you may also have some of the following symptoms:

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• Redness in the throat area

• Swollen tonsils

• White spots on tonsils

• Fever

• Cough

• Sneezing

• Stuffy or runny nose

• Body aches

• Headache

 

Sometimes when you have a sore throat, you become hoarse or completely lose your voice. These are temporary, and your voice will return to normal once you’ve recovered from the infection.

When should I see a doctor for a sore throat?

If your child has a sore throat, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends seeing a medical provider if the pain doesn’t go away after they’ve taken their first drink in the morning. Adults should seek medical care for a sore throat that lasts more than a week, is severe, or is accompanied by an earache or fever higher than 101℉.

Neu Urgent Care offers same-day, walk-in sick visits for sore throat and other acute illnesses.

How is a sore throat diagnosed and treated?

To diagnose the cause of your sore throat, the skilled team at Neu Urgent Care examines your throat with a lighted instrument, listens to your breathing with a stethoscope, and gently palpates your neck to check for swollen lymph glands. They may also swab your tonsils to run a lab culture for strep throat.

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Recovery from sore throats caused by viral infections usually takes 5-7 days and doesn’t require medical treatment. Getting extra rest and fluids helps your body fight the disease. Your provider may recommend over-the-counter or prescription pain or cough medicine to keep you comfortable while you recover.

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Bacterial infections are typically treated with antibiotics. It’s important to finish all of your antibiotics, even if your symptoms go away before you finish your medication. Not completing a full course could make your symptoms worse and your infection harder to treat in the future.

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If you or your child needs care for a sore throat, call Neu Urgent Care to make a same-day appointment, book online, or simply walk into the clinic today.