Sore throat

Strep throat (right) often presents with white patches, unlike a viral sore throat (left).

What is a Sore Throat?
A sore throat (Pharyngitis) is pain, scratchiness, or irritation of the throat that often worsens when you swallow.

Key Insight: Most sore throats are caused by **viruses** (like the cold or flu) and heal on their own. However, **Strep Throat** is bacterial and requires antibiotics to prevent serious complications.

Symptoms: Viral vs. Bacterial

Knowing the difference can help you decide if you need a doctor.

1. Viral Infection (Cold/Flu)

Usually accompanied by other cold symptoms:

• Runny or stuffy nose.
• Coughing and sneezing.
• Mild fever.
• Red throat (but usually no white spots).

2. Bacterial Infection (Strep Throat)

Strep throat signs often appear suddenly and include:

• No Cough: If you are coughing, it is likely not Strep.
• White Patches: Pus or white streaks on swollen, red tonsils.
• Swollen Lymph Nodes: Tender glands in the neck.
• High Fever: Usually over 101°F (38.3°C).

⚠️ WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
Adults: See a doctor if it lasts longer than a week or if you have a fever >101°F.
Children: Seek immediate care if your child has:

• Difficulty breathing.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Unusual Drooling: This indicates an inability to swallow saliva and can be a sign of a blocked airway (Epiglottitis).

Causes

• Viruses (90% of cases): Common cold, Flu, Mono (Mononucleosis), or Croup.
• Bacteria: Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep Throat).
• Dry Air: Sleeping with your mouth open or indoor heating can dry out mucous membranes.
• Irritants: Smoke, pollution, or spicy foods.
• GERD: Stomach acid backing up into the throat (Acid Reflux).

Complications

Most viral sore throats heal without issues. However, untreated Strep Throat can lead to serious problems:

• Rheumatic Fever: An inflammatory disease that can damage the heart valves.
• Kidney Inflammation: (Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis).
• Abscess: A collection of pus (Peritonsillar Abscess) that may need surgical drainage.

Diagnosis

Doctors use two main methods to detect bacteria:

• Rapid Strep Test: A throat swab that gives results in minutes.
• Throat Culture: If the rapid test is negative but Strep is still suspected, a sample is sent to a lab (takes 24-48 hours).

Treatment

Viral: Antibiotics will not work. Treatment focuses on symptom relief (rest, fluids) while your body fights the virus.

Bacterial (Strep): Requires a full course of antibiotics (usually Penicillin or Amoxicillin).
Note: You must finish all the pills even if you feel better, to prevent the bacteria from becoming resistant or causing Rheumatic Fever.

Home Remedies

🧂 THE SALT WATER GARGLE
One of the most effective ways to soothe a scratchy throat and reduce swelling.

Recipe:

• Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt into 8 ounces (1 cup) of warm water.
• Gargle for 10-15 seconds and spit it out.
• Repeat 3-4 times a day.

• Stay Hydrated: Keeps the throat moist. Ice pops can numb the pain.
• Humidify: Use a cool-mist humidifier to prevent dry air irritation.
• Lozenges: Hard candies or cough drops help stimulate saliva (do not give to children under 4 due to choking risk).

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.