Overview
Most sore throats are caused by viruses, like colds and flu. Antibiotics don't help these.
Strep throat, caused by bacteria, is more common in children and causes fever and sore throat without a cough. A quick test tells the difference.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the cause.
- Sore throat
- Pain when swallowing
- Scratchy or dry throat
Less common
- Fever
- Swollen neck glands
- Hoarse voice
- Red, swollen tonsils
Look up a symptom: Sore throat
When to get medical care
Causes
Viruses cause most sore throats. Strep bacteria, allergies, dry air, smoke, and acid reflux can also cause them.
Does it spread or run in families?
- Yes, it can spread from person to person.
- How it spreads: coughs, sneezes, or germs from poop getting into the mouth.
- Washing hands often and staying home when sick help protect others.
Who is more likely to get it
- Children ages 5 to 15
- Close contact with sick people
- Allergies and smoke
Possible complications
- Strep throat: Needs antibiotics
- Mono
- Tonsillitis
Diagnosis
A doctor looks at your throat and may test for strep.
Questions you may be asked
- Fever, cough, or runny nose
- Contact with someone with strep
The exam
They'll look at your throat and feel your neck glands.
Tests
Tests:
- Rapid strep test or throat culture: A swab of the throat.
Treatment
Home care eases most sore throats.
Self-care
- Drink warm liquids like tea with honey (not for babies under 1)
- Gargle with warm salt water
- Suck on lozenges or ice pops (lozenges only for older children)
- Use a humidifier
- Rest your voice
Medicines
Over-the-counter medicines help pain:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relievers | Pain and fever | No aspirin for children or teens. |
| Antibiotics | Strep throat only | Finish the full course. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Strep throat is treated with antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin.
How it compares
| Viral sore throat | Strep throat | Mono | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cough and runny nose | Common | Usually not | Sometimes |
| Fever | Low or none | Often high | Yes, with fatigue |
| Antibiotics help | No | Yes | No |
Prevention
To prevent sore throats:
- Wash hands often
- Don't share cups or utensils
- Avoid smoke
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to an ENT doctor (ear, nose, and throat doctor).
Back to school, work, or sports
- Stay home until 2 days after vomiting and diarrhea stop, especially if you work with food, children, or patients.
- Wash hands well after using the toilet.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Children: Strep is most common in school-age children.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
Outlook
Most sore throats go away in about a week.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines
Questions to ask
- Is it strep?
- When can my child return to school?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Sore throat (pharyngitis)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.