Fever and sore throat: what to know

Fever with a sore throat is often linked to an infection, and breathing, swallowing and hydration determine how urgently to seek care. Note whether there is cough, a blocked nose, swollen neck glands, a rash, or white patches, and describe how quickly symptoms developed.

A common cold or COVID-19 can cause throat irritation with congestion and cough. Croup may cause a harsh, barking cough and noisy breathing, while other infections can cause marked throat pain without much cough. Acute bronchitis mainly affects the airways and may follow cold symptoms. The presence of a symptom does not identify one cause; examination and, when appropriate, a throat test help guide treatment.

Take frequent sips of water or oral rehydration fluid, and choose soft foods if swallowing is uncomfortable. Rest and avoid smoke or strong fragrances. Use fever or pain medicine only as directed for the person's age and health, and never give aspirin to a child. Do not start leftover antibiotics; they may not treat a viral infection and can cause harm. Wash hands and avoid sharing utensils.

Get emergency help for difficulty breathing, drooling with inability to swallow, a muffled voice, severe one-sided throat swelling, confusion, a seizure, or inability to keep fluids down. Seek prompt assessment for dehydration, a stiff neck, a rapidly spreading rash, severe worsening pain, or fever that persists or returns. A child who is unusually quiet, hard to wake or refusing drinks needs urgent advice.

Does the throat need an examination or test? Is this likely to spread to household members? What pain relief and fluid plan suit this person? Which changes mean we should seek urgent care?