Strep throat and mouth sores

Strep throat commonly affects the throat and tonsils, causing pain on swallowing, fever and tender neck glands. Sores on the lips, tongue, gums or inside the cheeks are less characteristic and can arise from viral illness, minor injury, dry mouth or other mouth conditions. A sore throat and mouth ulcers can occur together without one causing the other. The pattern, location, number of sores and other symptoms help a clinician decide whether testing is needed.

Drink cool or lukewarm fluids, choose soft foods and avoid spicy, acidic or very hot items if they sting. Use a soft toothbrush and do not pick at sores. Do not share cups, utensils or lip products while unwell. Arrange a GP Consultation if sores are extensive, keep returning, make drinking difficult, or occur with fever and a severe Sore Throat. If strep throat is confirmed, follow the prescribed Antibiotic Treatment rather than treating yourself with leftover medicine.

Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, inability to swallow fluids or saliva, severe dehydration, rapidly spreading swelling, confusion or a rapidly worsening illness. Prompt review is needed for sores near the eye, significant facial swelling, severe pain, or sores that do not heal or keep recurring. A clinician can examine the mouth and throat together.

Ask whether the sores fit Strep Throat, Tonsillitis or another condition, whether a throat test is needed, and what treatment is safe for pain and mouth irritation.