Septic sore throat: what to know

A sore throat can arise from viruses, bacteria, dry air, irritants, reflux or allergy. [Strep Throat](/conditions/strep-throat/) is a bacterial infection that may cause sudden throat pain, fever, tender neck glands and pain when swallowing. [Tonsillitis](/conditions/tonsillitis/) can be viral or bacterial and may produce enlarged, red tonsils or visible coating. A cough, runny nose or hoarse voice can fit a viral illness such as a [Common Cold](/conditions/common-cold/), [Influenza](/conditions/influenza/) or [COVID-19](/conditions/covid-19/). Symptoms do not identify the cause by themselves.

Rest, drink fluids in small frequent amounts and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Warm drinks or simple throat soothing measures may help. Avoid sharing cups and wash hands, especially while fever or coughing is present. A clinician can examine the throat and decide whether testing or prescription treatment is appropriate. Do not use leftover antibiotics, because they may not treat the cause and can complicate later assessment.

Get emergency help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, swelling inside the mouth or neck, severe one-sided throat pain, or difficulty opening the mouth. Seek prompt clinical advice for persistent fever, dehydration, worsening pain or symptoms that are not settling. Throat symptoms can also reflect [Glandular Fever](/conditions/glandular-fever/) or irritation from [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/), so an examination may be useful.

Could this be bacterial, viral or irritation-related? Do I need a throat test? What should I do if swallowing becomes harder or the pain becomes one-sided?