Why does glandular fever cause sore throat?

The throat may look red and swollen, and swallowing can become uncomfortable. Sore Throat is a very common presentation of Glandular Fever, but a sore throat has many possible causes.

Glandular fever is usually caused by a virus. Your immune system responds in the throat, tonsils and lymph nodes, bringing immune cells to the area. That response produces swelling, tenderness and the raw feeling associated with throat pain.

Tiredness, fever and swollen glands in the neck can occur alongside throat symptoms. Tonsils may become enlarged or develop a coating, which can resemble other throat infections and may need a clinical assessment.

Rest, drink enough fluid to keep your urine pale, and choose cool or soft foods if swallowing is difficult. Warm drinks, salt-water gargles and simple pain relief may ease discomfort for some people; a pharmacist can advise on suitable options.

Avoid sharing drinks, cutlery or toothbrushes while unwell, since saliva can spread the virus. Skip contact sports or heavy lifting until a clinician says it is appropriate, because glandular fever can affect the spleen.

Arrange medical advice if throat pain is severe, you cannot keep fluids down, symptoms are worsening, or you are not improving. A clinician may examine your throat and neck and consider tests when the cause is unclear.

Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, marked dehydration, severe pain in the upper left side of the abdomen, fainting, or new confusion.

Ask whether your symptoms fit glandular fever or another throat infection, which pain-relief choices suit you, and when it is safe to return to strenuous activity. If your tonsils are very swollen, ask what changes should prompt urgent reassessment.