Does glandular fever cause sore throat?

Glandular fever can inflame the throat and tonsils, causing pain, redness and sometimes a coating on the tonsils. Swollen glands in the neck, fever, headache and pronounced tiredness may occur at the same time. These features can overlap with other throat infections, so a sore throat alone cannot identify glandular fever. The illness may feel more intense than an ordinary minor throat irritation.

Sip cool or warm fluids according to what feels comfortable, and choose soft foods if chewing or swallowing is difficult. Rest and avoid smoke or other throat irritants. Ask a pharmacist or clinician which pain relief is suitable for you, particularly if you have another condition or take regular medicines. Do not share drinks or utensils while you are ill.

Seek prompt advice if throat pain is severe, swallowing is becoming harder, or you cannot maintain fluids. Urgent help is needed for breathing difficulty, drooling because swallowing is not possible, marked dehydration, confusion, or sudden severe upper-left abdominal pain. A clinician can examine your throat and consider testing.

Ask whether the throat findings fit glandular fever or another infection, whether testing is useful, and what pain relief is safe for you. Explain when the sore throat started and whether fever, swollen glands or unusual fatigue accompanied it.