Sore Throat
A sore throat is usually caused by a virus, but strep throat and other causes need to be considered in the right setting.
Symptoms
Symptoms include throat pain, painful swallowing, swollen glands, fever, and sometimes cough or congestion.
Causes and risk
Viruses are the most common cause. Group A strep is more likely when fever occurs without cough and with swollen nodes or tonsillar exudate.
How it is evaluated
We review symptoms and may do a strep test based on the exam and history.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and can include supportive care or antibiotics if strep is confirmed.