Common symptoms
Throat pain
Scratchy, raw, or burning pain in the throat, especially when swallowing
Swollen tonsils
Enlarged, red tonsils that may have white patches or streaks
Difficulty swallowing
Pain or discomfort when swallowing food, liquids, or saliva
Swollen lymph nodes
Tender, enlarged glands on the sides of the neck
Fever
Elevated temperature often accompanying bacterial throat infections
Sore throats are most commonly caused by viral infections (cold, flu, mono) but can also result from streptococcal bacteria (strep throat). Distinguishing between viral and bacterial causes is important because only bacterial infections benefit from antibiotics.
Viral sore throats typically peak within two to three days and resolve within a week. Strep throat requires a 10-day course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria and prevent complications such as rheumatic fever.
After antibiotic treatment for strep, most patients feel significantly better within 24 to 48 hours. Completing the full course of antibiotics is essential even if symptoms improve early.