Sore throat
Created 03.08.2023
Updated: 19.12.2023
Approved by: General Practitioner, Dr Binita Parmar
Sore throat (acute tonsillitis) is an infection of the tonsils and mucous membranes around it. Inflammation can be caused by both viruses and bacteria. Epstein-Barr virus that causes kissing disease (Mononucleosis) is a frequent viral cause, while Streptococci are most common among bacterial causes.
Symptoms
The symptoms can vary from person to person, but you may experience:
- Painful or scratchy throat which can hurt to swallow
- Hoarse voice
- Fever
- Tiredness or Lethargy
- Cough
- Swollen neck glands
Examination of sore throat
The doctor who examines you will measure your temperature, and examine your throat and check to see if you have any swollen neck glands. In some cases, a throat swab or blood tests can be taken to rule out other infections but this is not always necessary.
Treating sore throat
If the doctor suspects that bacteria is the cause of your infection, you will be prescribed a course of antibiotics and recommendations to help you recover faster.
If a virus is suspected, there are no antibiotics for this but the doctor can provide recommendations for your symptoms.
Unfortunately, there is no medicinal treatment to cure Mononucleosis. The doctor can provide recommendations for the symptoms, such as medication to reduce the fever and pain relief.
