What should you know about prolonged sore throat?

A sore throat is often caused by a viral illness such as a common cold, influenza, or COVID-19. Tonsillitis and strep throat can cause stronger pain, swollen tonsils, fever, or difficulty swallowing. Glandular fever is another possibility, particularly when profound tiredness and swollen glands accompany the throat symptoms. Allergic rhinitis may lead to mucus dripping down the throat, while acid reflux can irritate it without a typical burning sensation. These patterns overlap, so symptoms alone cannot identify the cause.

Drink fluids regularly, choose soft foods if swallowing hurts, and avoid smoke and alcohol-based irritants. Warm drinks or gargling with appropriately prepared salt water may soothe discomfort. Rest and follow label directions for any over-the-counter pain relief that is safe for you. Do not start leftover antibiotics: they do not treat viral infections and may be unsuitable. A clinician can examine your throat and decide whether a swab or other test is needed.

Book an appointment when throat pain persists, repeatedly returns, or interferes with eating, drinking, sleep, or speaking. Seek urgent help if you cannot swallow saliva, have breathing difficulty, rapidly increasing neck or throat swelling, severe dehydration, confusion, or a muffled voice with marked one-sided pain.

Ask whether the pattern suggests infection, reflux, or nasal drainage; whether testing is appropriate; which pain relief is suitable; and what symptoms should prompt an earlier review. Tell them about fever, rash, swollen glands, cough, heartburn, and recent exposure to illness.