Sore throat on one side and COVID-19

Viral irritation can feel stronger on one side, especially early in an illness. COVID-19 may also bring cough, fever, tiredness, headache, blocked nose or a change in taste or smell, although symptoms vary. A rapid test may be useful when exposure or other symptoms make COVID-19 possible; follow local testing advice if you are unsure.

Other explanations include a swollen tonsil, bacterial Strep Throat, Tonsillitis, Glandular Fever, a Common Cold or Influenza. Mucus from Allergic Rhinitis and irritation from Acid Reflux can also inflame the throat without a respiratory infection.

Rest, drink fluids regularly and choose soft foods or warm drinks if swallowing is uncomfortable. Gargling with warm salt water may soothe an adult throat. Avoid smoking and smoky rooms. If COVID-19 is possible, limit close contact with others while unwell and follow current local guidance. Ask a pharmacist or clinician before taking medicines, particularly if you have other conditions or take regular treatment.

Seek urgent help if you struggle to breathe, cannot swallow saliva, are drooling, develop a muffled voice, or have rapidly increasing swelling in the mouth or neck. Prompt assessment is also needed for severe one-sided pain with difficulty opening the mouth, marked dehydration, confusion or a worsening illness.

Arrange a clinical review if the pain is severe, keeps returning, is not improving, or comes with high fever, a rash, neck swelling or pus on a tonsil. A clinician can examine the throat and decide whether testing is needed.

Could this be COVID-19, Strep Throat or Tonsillitis? Do I need a throat examination or test? What symptoms should make me seek urgent help, and how should I manage pain with my current medicines?