Sore Throat

A sore throat is a common symptom of upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold, the flu, and strep throat. Many sore throats improve with at-home care, but if yours or your child’s lasts more than a few days, it’s important to determine the cause. At Humble Simple Care, a virtual primary care practice serving people of all ages throughout Kentucky and Virginia, Nicole Isaac, MSN, FNP-C, regularly diagnoses and treats sore throats. To schedule a telehealth appointment by clicking the online booking feature.

What is a sore throat?

A sore throat causes pain or irritation when you swallow. It’s a common symptom of viral upper respiratory infections, such as the flu and the common cold. Bacterial infections, such as strep throat, can also cause a sore throat.

What are the symptoms of a sore throat?

Sore throat symptoms include:

• Throat pain
• A scratchy feeling in your throat
• Pain that worsens when swallowing or talking
• Difficulty swallowing
• Sore, swollen glands in your neck or jaw
• White patches or pus on your tonsils

Sometimes, a sore throat can make you hoarse or cause you to lose your voice.

When should I see a medical professional about a sore throat?

When you should see a medical professional about a sore throat depends on your age and symptoms.

If your child experiences a sore throat, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends seeking professional care if it doesn’t improve after their first drink in the morning. 

If you’re an adult with a sore throat, make an appointment with Nicole if your symptoms last over a week. 

How is a sore throat diagnosed via telemedicine?

Nicole reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms, including when your sore throat started and whether it’s improved with at-home care. Tell her if you’re experiencing any associated symptoms, such as a runny nose or a cough, as this can help determine the cause. 

Next, Nicole completes a virtual exam. She may ask you to open your mouth, say “ah,” and point your camera at your throat. If your throat is red or your tonsils have white spots on them, she may refer you to a lab to undergo a throat swab. A swab can determine whether you have a specific infection, like strep throat.

How is a sore throat treated?

Treatment for a sore throat depends on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms. If you have a bacterial infection, Nicole prescribes antibiotics. If your sore throat is viral, Nicole may recommend:

• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Gargling with saltwater
• Stirring honey into a hot drink, such as tea, to coat your throat
• Sucking on ice cubes or popsicles to numb the pain
• Using a humidifier
• Resting

The good news is that most sore throats improve within a week.

If you or your child has a sore throat, schedule a telemedicine appointment at Humble Simple Care today by clicking the booking feature.