What Is a Sore Throat?
A sore throat is a common condition where the throat feels dry, painful, or scratchy. It can make swallowing uncomfortable and speaking painful. According to public health data from the CDC, sore throats (also called pharyngitis) account for millions of healthcare visits in the U.S. every year. According to research, sore throats account for about 2% of all primary care visits.
Most sore throats are mild and go away within a few days, but persistent or severe cases could signal an underlying infection or condition that requires medical care.
Common Causes of a Sore Throat
Most sore throats are caused by viral infections, but there are other possible triggers as well. Understanding the cause helps guide the right treatment.
Viral Infections
Viruses are the leading cause of sore throats—responsible for up to 70–90% of cases. Common viral causes include:
- The common cold (rhinovirus or coronavirus)
- Influenza (flu)
- Mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr virus)
- COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses
Bacterial Infections
A smaller percentage of sore throats are caused by bacteria. The most notable is Group A Streptococcus (GAS), which causes strep throat.
Strep throat often presents with:
- Sudden sore throat without cough
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- White patches on the tonsils
If left untreated, strep infections can lead to complications such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation. That’s why prompt testing and treatment are important, therefore, prefer same day sick visit to your primary care doctor.
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
- Dry air (especially during winter or air conditioning)
- Pollution or cigarette smoke exposure
- Shouting or overusing your voice
- Irritants like cleaning chemicals or spicy foods
Allergies
Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, or pet dander can cause postnasal drip, where mucus drains into the throat and leads to irritation.
Quick Comparison Table: Viral vs. Bacterial Sore Throat
| Type | Common Signs | Duration | Treatment |
| Viral (Cold, Flu, COVID-19) | Cough, runny nose, low-grade fever | 3–7 days | Rest, hydration, OTC pain relief |
| Bacterial (Strep Throat) | Sudden severe pain, fever, swollen tonsils, no cough | 7–10 days (needs antibiotics) | Diagnostic test + antibiotics |
Sore Throat Symptoms
Sore throat symptoms can vary depending on the cause but commonly include:
- Pain or scratchiness in the throat
- Dryness or burning sensation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swollen glands in the neck or jaw
- Hoarseness or loss of voice
- Fever, headache, or body aches (if infection is present)
- Red or inflamed tonsils
If your symptoms worsen or persist beyond a week, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation.
How Is a Sore Throat Diagnosed?
Primary care providers typically diagnose a sore throat through a physical examination and, when necessary, a rapid strep test or throat culture.
They may also use a clinical scoring method (such as the Centor or McIsaac score) based on symptoms like:
- Presence of fever
- Absence of cough
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Tonsillar exudates (white patches)
If bacterial infection is suspected, a rapid antigen test can confirm it within minutes. Throat cultures, though slower, are more accurate.
Early diagnosis helps prevent complications and ensures appropriate treatment.
When Should You See a Doctor for a Sore Throat?
You should schedule an appointment with your primary care physician if:
- The sore throat lasts more than 5–7 days
- You experience severe throat pain
- You have a fever over 101°F (38.4°C)
- You develop white patches or pus on your tonsils
- You experience repeated sore throats over a short period
Your provider may recommend further testing to rule out strep throat, mononucleosis, or other infections.
When Should You Seek Immediate Medical Help?
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you notice:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Drooling due to inability to swallow
- Severe neck swelling
- Trouble opening your mouth or turning your head
These may indicate a serious infection like a peritonsillar abscess or epiglottitis, both of which require emergency medical care.
Do You Need Antibiotics for a Sore Throat?
Not always. According to the CDC and NIH, most sore throats caused by viruses resolve on their own without antibiotics.
However, strep throat and other bacterial infections do require antibiotics to:
- Shorten recovery time
- Reduce contagiousness
- Prevent complications such as rheumatic fever
If your symptoms do not improve within a few days—or worsen—your doctor may perform a strep test to determine if antibiotics are needed.
When Can You Return to School or Work After Strep Throat?
Per CDC guidelines, once you’ve started antibiotics for strep throat, you are typically no longer contagious after 24 hours.
Most people can safely return to school or work after a full day of antibiotic treatment and once they feel well enough.
Home Remedies and Relief Tips for Sore Throat
If you’re dealing with a mild sore throat, the following evidence-based home remedies may help relieve discomfort:
1. Gargle with Warm Salt Water
Dissolve ½ teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and gargle several times a day.
Research from NIH studies suggests that saline gargling can help soothe throat irritation and may even reduce viral load in the upper airway.
2. Drink Warm Liquids
Warm tea with honey or lemon helps lubricate the throat.
(Note: Honey should not be given to children under 1 year of age due to the risk of botulism.)
3. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids like water, broth, or herbal tea. Dehydration can make throat pain worse.
4. Use a Humidifier
Adding moisture to indoor air can relieve dryness and prevent throat irritation, especially in winter.
5. Rest Your Voice
Avoid shouting or talking excessively until your throat feels better.
6. Over-the-Counter Relief
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce pain and fever (as directed by a doctor).
How to Prevent a Sore Throat
Preventing sore throats—especially those caused by infection—starts with good hygiene and healthy habits:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid sharing utensils, drinks, or personal items.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Don’t smoke and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Stay hydrated and maintain good indoor humidity levels.
If you’re prone to sore throats due to allergies, managing your allergy symptoms can help reduce recurrence.
Medical Treatment Options
If your sore throat is due to a bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic such as penicillin or amoxicillin.
For viral infections, treatment focuses on symptom management: rest, hydration, and pain relief.
In some cases, your provider may recommend:
- Throat lozenges or sprays for temporary relief
- Nasal saline rinses for postnasal drip
- Corticosteroids for severe inflammation (if clinically indicated)
Need Help with a Sore Throat in Plano, Frisco, or Irving?
If your sore throat is persistent, recurring, or accompanied by fever or swelling, schedule an appointment with our primary care team at Passion Health Primary Care.
Our board-certified providers offer same-day appointments, rapid strep testing, and comprehensive evaluation to identify the cause of your symptoms and provide fast, effective relief.
📞 Call us at (214) 666-6259 or book your appointment online today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sore Throats
Q1: What is the fastest way to relieve a sore throat?
Warm teas with honey, saltwater gargles, and lozenges can provide quick relief for mild sore throats.
Q2: Can allergies cause sore throat?
Yes. Allergic reactions can cause postnasal drip, which irritates the throat.
Q3: Is every sore throat contagious?
No. Only sore throats caused by infectious agents like viruses or bacteria are contagious.
Q4: Can a sore throat be a sign of COVID-19?
Yes. Sore throat can occur as an early symptom of COVID-19. Testing is recommended if you suspect exposure.
Q5: How can a primary care physician help with a sore throat?
Your doctor can determine the cause through examination and testing, prescribe antibiotics if needed, and suggest treatments for relief.
Q6: How long does a sore throat usually last?
Viral sore throats generally resolve within 3–7 days. If symptoms persist longer, a medical evaluation is advised.
Q7: How long after starting antibiotics am I no longer contagious?
Most people are not contagious after 24 hours of antibiotic treatment, per CDC guidelines.
