When to worry about a sore throat with glandular fever

Glandular fever can cause a very sore, swollen throat with enlarged tonsils and tender neck glands. Tiredness and fever may last longer than the throat pain. Sore Throat is a very common presentation of Glandular Fever; a sore throat by itself cannot establish the diagnosis. A clinician may consider an examination and suitable tests, especially when symptoms are strong or prolonged.

Drink regularly, choose soft foods, and rest when fever or fatigue is strong. Follow the treatment plan given by your clinician and check before taking new medicines. Avoid strenuous activity and contact sports while unwell, because glandular fever can enlarge the spleen. Do not share drinks or cutlery, and arrange review if pain prevents normal eating or drinking.

Seek emergency help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a rapidly worsening muffled voice, fainting, or severe dehydration. Sudden or intense pain high in the abdomen, particularly after an injury, also needs immediate assessment. Contact a clinician promptly if fever persists, symptoms are getting worse, or yellowing of the skin or eyes appears.

Ask which test is appropriate, how to manage throat pain safely, when normal activity can resume, and which symptoms could indicate a complication. Confirm when you should return if drinking remains difficult.