What should you know about bacterial sore throat treatment?

A sore throat may be caused by bacteria, a virus or irritation. A clinician uses the symptom pattern and throat examination to judge whether bacterial infection is likely and whether a swab or other test would change management. Strep throat and tonsillitis can be considered during this assessment.

Antibiotics target bacteria, not viruses. They may shorten illness or reduce complications in selected bacterial infections, but they can also cause unwanted effects and should not be shared, saved or taken for a different illness.

Sip water or warm drinks, rest and use soft foods while swallowing is sore. A pharmacist can help you choose an age-appropriate pain or fever medicine, taking account of pregnancy, allergies, stomach problems and other medicines. Avoid smoking and keep hands and commonly touched surfaces clean.

If antibiotics are prescribed, follow the timing and dose on the prescription. Do not stop, double or replace doses without advice. Contact the prescriber or pharmacist if you develop a troublesome reaction, cannot keep the medicine down or are unsure how to take it.

Seek a prompt review if symptoms worsen, fever persists, swallowing becomes harder or you are not drinking enough. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, drooling, inability to swallow saliva, a rapidly enlarging neck or throat swelling, a muffled voice or marked weakness.

Ask what evidence supports a bacterial cause, whether testing is needed, how to manage missed doses and which changes should prompt a review. Tell the clinician about allergies and medicines before treatment is chosen.