Sore Throat (Tonsillitis)
A sore throat is a common condition that can cause pain, irritation or discomfort when swallowing. It is often caused by a viral infection, although bacterial infections such as strep throat can also cause tonsillitis.
If you think you may have tonsillitis, you can speak with an English-speaking doctor online for assessment and treatment where appropriate.”
Causes
Most sore throats are caused by viral infections, including the common cold and flu.
Bacterial infections can also cause a sore throat. One of the most common is Group A Streptococcus (strep throat), which can cause tonsillitis and may require antibiotic treatment.
Other possible causes include cold virus, COVID, reflux, smoking, …
Symptoms
Sore, painful or scratchy throat
Pain or difficulty when swallowing
Red or swollen tonsils
White spots or patches on the tonsils
Swollen or tender glands in the neck
Fever
Headache
Tiredness or feeling generally unwell
Treatment
Most sore throats are caused by viruses and improve on their own without antibiotics.
To help relieve symptoms, it is recommended to:
Drink plenty of fluids
Rest
Take simple pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, if suitable for you
Gargle with warm salt water
Use throat lozenges if appropriate
If your doctor suspects a bacterial infection such as strep throat/pus, antibiotics may be recommended where clinically appropriate.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis can often be made based on your symptoms and medical history.
In some cases, an in-person throat examination or throat swab may be recommended, particularly if a bacterial infection such as strep throat is suspected or your symptoms are severe or persistent.
When should I seek urgent medical care?
Difficulty breathing
Severe difficulty swallowing or inability to swallow fluids
Drooling because you cannot swallow normally
Severe swelling of the throat or neck
Severe pain predominantly on one side of the throat
Difficulty opening your mouthç
A rapidly worsening illness or feeling severely unwell
Think you may have tonsillitis?
Speak with an English-speaking doctor online.
Tonsillitis- FAQs
Can I get antibiotics for a sore throat online?
1
Yes, where clinically appropriate. Most sore throats are caused by viruses and do not require antibiotics. If your symptoms suggest a bacterial infection, your doctor can assess whether antibiotic treatment or further testing is appropriate.
How long does a sore throat last?
Most uncomplicated sore throats improve within several days and usually resolve within about a week. Symptoms that persist, worsen or repeatedly return should be medically assessed.
2
How can I relieve a sore throat?
3
Drinking plenty of fluids, resting, gargling with warm salt water and using simple pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, if suitable for you, may help relieve discomfort.
Is tonsillitis contagious?
Tonsillitis itself describes inflammation of the tonsils, but the viral or bacterial infections causing it can be contagious. Good hand hygiene and avoiding sharing drinks, utensils or other personal items can help reduce transmission.
4
How do I know if my sore throat is strep throat?
5
Symptoms such as sudden sore throat, fever, swollen neck glands and inflamed tonsils can occur with strep throat. White spots can also be suggestive of a bacterial infection. Book a consultation to get a diagnosis.
