Sore throat

A viral sore throat is often accompanied by symptoms such as a runny nose and cough. A bacterial infection usually causes a high fever, swollen tonsils with whiteheads, and swollen lymph nodes. Only a medical examination can definitively confirm the nature of the infection.

Seek prompt medical attention if you have a high fever (over 38.5°C), severe difficulty in breathing or swallowing, a very altered voice, severe pain, or if symptoms persist for more than 5-7 days.

Treatments include salt-water gargles, throat lozenges, analgesic sprays and anti-inflammatory drugs. In the case of a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed by a physician.

Consult your doctor if symptoms persist for more than a week, worsen, or are accompanied by high fever, breathing difficulties, or an inability to swallow liquids.

Yes, teleconsultation is available for an initial evaluation. The doctor will be able to assess the need for an in-person consultation based on your symptoms.

Untreated sore throat can lead to complications such as otitis, sinusitis, peritonsillar abscesses, or in severe cases, systemic complications if the infection spreads.

Prevention involves good hand hygiene, avoidance of irritants (tobacco, dry air), adequate hydration, and boosting the immune system with a balanced diet and adequate sleep.

Signs include sudden high fever, very swollen tonsils with white patches, swollen and painful cervical lymph nodes, and absence of cough or cold symptoms.

Effective natural remedies include honey, warm salt water gargles, herbal teas (chamomile, thyme), vocal rest and good hydration. Steaming can also help relieve discomfort.

A mild sore throat usually improves within a few days with simple care. A more serious condition is characterized by persistent high fever, intense one-sided pain, breathing difficulties, or an inability to swallow even liquids.