When should you see a doctor about sore throat?

A sore throat is irritation or pain in the throat, often during a viral infection such as influenza or COVID-19. Tonsillitis, strep throat, laryngitis, and glandular fever can also present with throat pain, sometimes alongside swollen glands, fever, cough, hoarseness, or marked tiredness. Scarlet fever may include a fine rash. Diphtheria is uncommon but can cause a severe throat illness and needs urgent medical attention.

Drink fluids, rest your voice, and choose soft foods if swallowing is uncomfortable. Warm drinks or cool foods may soothe the throat. Follow medicine-label directions and ask a pharmacist about suitable pain relief, especially for a child, pregnancy, or a long-term condition. Avoid sharing cups and wash hands while an infection is possible.

Get emergency help for breathing difficulty, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, severe one-sided swelling, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Arrange a prompt appointment for a high fever, a rash, dehydration, severe pain, swollen neck glands, or symptoms that are not improving. Seek advice sooner if immunity is reduced or the person is very young or frail.

Ask whether an examination or throat test is needed and whether you should avoid close contact with others. Tell the clinician about fever, cough, rash, swollen glands, voice change, exposure to illness, and your ability to drink.