Most will go away on their own in time, but some may need treatment.
Some sore throats are fence sitters. They can seem to go on for days and days with no end in sight, but they aren’t truly agonizing. They wax and wane. And then, all of a sudden, they are gone. Not a prickle or pain in sight. Done.
But other sore throats rage. They come on suddenly and can be extremely painful. These are usually the ones that need some medical attention.
A sore throat could be a sign that you have a common cold or a bout of the flu coming on. If yours is connected to a virus, there isn’t much you can do about it but ride the sickness out.
Related: Is it safe drinking water that’s been sitting overnight?
One that is the result of strep throat however, (usually the more painful of the two), can be treated with medication.
According to Osteopathic.org, it’s time to see a doctor if your sore throat is severe and accompanied by a fever that lasts longer than 24 to 48 hours. You should also get medical help if a rash appears or you can’t breathe properly when you lie down to sleep as your throat is so swollen.
Adults with a sore throat should also look out for joint pain, trouble swallowing and recurring sore throats. A sensation of losing your voice that lasts longer than two weeks and lumps on your neck are also a bad sign. Always consult a doctor for medical advice when feeling sick.
For more signs and symptoms to watch for, click here.
