Sore throat and fever: what should you know?

A Common Cold, Influenza or COVID-19 can inflame the throat alongside tiredness, cough, congestion or body aches. Strep Throat may cause a marked sore throat and fever without a cough, while Tonsillitis can bring swollen tonsils, painful swallowing and sometimes white patches. Glandular Fever may cause prolonged throat discomfort, swollen neck glands and pronounced fatigue. Acid Reflux and Allergic Rhinitis can irritate the throat, but fever points more towards infection than irritation alone.

Rest, drink frequent fluids and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Warm drinks, cool liquids or throat lozenges may soothe irritation. Consider paracetamol or ibuprofen only if suitable for you, following the package directions and checking with a pharmacist if you have a long-term condition, take other medicines, or are treating a child. Avoid sharing cups and utensils, wash your hands, and stay home while feverish. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections; a clinician can assess whether testing or treatment for a bacterial infection is appropriate.

Seek urgent help if breathing is difficult, you cannot swallow fluids, saliva is pooling, your voice becomes severely muffled, or swelling is rapidly worsening. Arrange medical advice if fever persists, symptoms are becoming more severe, dehydration develops, or you have a weakened immune system. A clinician may examine your throat, ears and neck and decide whether a swab or other assessment is useful.

Could this pattern fit Strep Throat, Tonsillitis or a viral illness? Do I need a throat test? Which fever and pain medicines are suitable for me? What changes should prompt urgent review?