What is it?
Sore throats are usually (85-90% of the time) caused by virus. Sore throats caused by viruses are self-limiting and symptoms usually last 5-6 days. Symptoms usually last 5-6 days.
Symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections (stuffy, runny nose and cough) usually appear within 2-3 days of infection.Symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections (cough) usually appear within 2-3 days after the onset of a sore throat. Self-limiting infections do not require See a doctor.
What are the common symptoms
- Fever up to 102 degrees Fahrenheit
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes (glands) in the neck
- Stuffy, runny nose and cough for 2-3 days
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches and pains
Self-care measures
- Use saline nose drops to loosen mucus
- Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids
- Gargle with salt water and use throat sprays/lozenges (containing Benzocaine) for throat pain
- Use Ibuprofen (Advil®) 600 mg every 6-8 hours or Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) 650 mg every 6 hours as needed to reduce fever/discomfort
When to seek care from a medical provider
- Fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit
- Inability to swallow oral secretions (saliva)
- Fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 3 days
- Significant/worsening swelling of tonsils on one side only
- Fever over 101 F for more than 3 days
- Sore throat that does not improve in 2-3 days and no runny, stuffy nose or cough
NOTE: Strep tests are more reliable 24 hours after the start of a sore throat. In order to provide you with the most reliable treatment, SHCC does not recommend that you have a strep test until you have had a sore throat for more than 24 hours.