Sore Throat

A sore throat can make it miserable to speak, eat, or even swallow. At Orlando Medical Associates in Orlando, Florida, skilled nurse practitioner Elena Vale-Saquieres, DNP, FNP-C, offers thorough evaluations and effective care so you can overcome symptoms faster and recover comfortably. When you need to feel better, call the Orlando Medical Associates office or use the online scheduler to book your sore throat treatment today.

What are some common causes of a sore throat?

Some of the most common causes of a sore throat are colds, the flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses. These illnesses can cause throat irritation along with symptoms such as:

• Coughing
• Congestion
• Runny nose
• Fever
• Fatigue

Other potential causes include:

• Seasonal allergies
• Postnasal drip
• Dry air
• Acid reflux
• Smoking or exposure to irritants
• Wear-and-tear on your throat from singing, speaking, or shouting too much

A bacterial infection can cause a sore throat, most notably group A streptococcus, which causes strep throat. 

Strep throat may cause a sudden, painful sore throat. You may also develop a fever, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty swallowing. Unlike many viral illnesses, strep throat won’t usually make you cough.

When should I see a professional for a sore throat?

Many mild sore throats improve on their own. However, Elena may need to evaluate you if your sore throat is severe, lasts several days without improving, or keeps returning. This is especially true if a high fever, swollen glands, rash, or significant difficulty swallowing accompany it. 

Seek urgent medical attention if you:

• Have trouble breathing
• Can’t swallow fluids
• Experience severe swelling, drooling, or rapidly worsening symptoms

These can indicate a condition requiring prompt treatment. Elena can evaluate your symptoms, perform appropriate testing, and help determine whether your sore throat requires prescription treatment.

Does a sore throat require antibiotics?

Not necessarily. Antibiotics treat bacterial infections, such as confirmed or strongly suspected strep throat, but they don’t work against viruses. Taking antibiotics you don’t need can cause side effects and contribute to antibiotic resistance.

If Elena suspects strep throat, she may perform a rapid strep test and, when appropriate, additional testing. Treatment decisions are based on your symptoms, examination, and test results.

What can I expect from sore throat treatment?

Sore throat from a viral infection may improve with:

• Rest
• Fluids
• Warm beverages
• Throat lozenges
• Medication

Elena can prescribe an antibiotic if you have a bacterial infection and explain how to take your medication and what symptoms to watch for during recovery.

You don’t have to wait for symptoms to resolve on their own. If you have a persistent, severe, or worsening sore throat, call Orlando Medical Associates to schedule next-day or even same-day care. Book your evaluation with Elena by calling the office or booking online today.