How Long Does A Sore Throat Last?

• A sore throat is commonly characterised by sensations of itchiness, scratchiness, and pain, especially aggravated during swallowing or speaking.
  
  
• The duration of discomfort from a sore throat can vary depending on its underlying cause, ranging from 24 hours to as long as three weeks.
  
  
• If your sore throat does not improve after a few weeks, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Prolonged sore throat symptoms may indicate a more severe condition resulting from viral or bacterial infections.

Sore throats are quite common and can be a symptom of various illnesses, from mild to more serious ones. Each year, over 200 million Americans have a sore throat, which is usually not a cause for alarm.

However, if your sore throat sticks around longer than usual, it's a good plan to schedule a doctor's appointment.

Understanding how long a sore throat might last and what to do if it doesn't improve can help prevent the development of more severe illnesses.

What Is A Sore Throat?

A sore throat, called pharyngitis, typically feels itchy, scratchy, or painful, especially when you swallow or talk.

It happens due to inflammation in the throat's back and is often an early sign of a minor illness. But, in most instances, sore throats are nothing to worry about.

How Long Does A Sore Throat Usually Last?

How long your sore throat sticks around can vary from a few weeks to three days, depending on what's irritating.

When it comes to common colds and the flu, they are often the culprits behind sore throats. These illnesses can result in a pesky postnasal drip, where mucus keeps flowing into your throat, irritating.

A common cold or flu infection usually goes away in about one to two weeks. So, if you're dealing with a sore throat due to these, your symptoms, including the sore throat, should start getting better within ten days.

Allergies

• Like colds and flu, allergies can irritate your sinuses, leading to a bothersome postnasal drip.
  
  
• This dripping can inflame and irritate your throat, causing pain.
  
  
• Allergy symptoms tend to hang around as long as you're exposed to the allergen, which means you might suffer for weeks or even months.
  
  
• If you can avoid the allergen, your sore throat should improve within two to three weeks.

Strep Throat

In rare cases, a sore throat could be a sign of a more severe condition, strep throat, or a contagious bacterial infection.

A rapid strep test can help confirm if you have it.

With proper medical care, symptoms might ease as soon as 24 hours after treating strep throat, but in most cases, they can last up to five days.

COVID-19

A sore throat is one of the common symptoms of COVID-19. If this virus is behind your sore throat, it can stick around for two to 14 days.

Getting tested for COVID-19 if you suspect you might be infected is always a good idea.

How Long Will A Sore Throat Last Without Treatment?

The duration of a sore throat without treatment can differ, depending on the underlying cause of the infection.

If your sore throat is not due to a severe illness, you can expect it to improve within seven to ten days.

It's advisable to seek medical attention if your symptoms don't get better within that timeframe or if you suspect a viral infection is the cause of your sore throat.

When Should I See A Doctor About My Sore Throat?

While a typical sore throat is often not a big worry, recognising when to consult a doctor is crucial for addressing potentially serious issues.

Consider making an appointment with a healthcare provider if:

• You're enduring severe pain that disrupts your daily life.
  
  
• Swallowing has become difficult.
  
  
• Your symptoms haven't improved within ten days.

As part of the diagnosis, your doctor might conduct some tests to rule out viral infections such as strep throat or rheumatic fever.

They could also prescribe antibiotics to help alleviate and treat your sore throat.

Where Can I Learn More About Sore Throats And Other Illnesses?

If your sore throat keeps bothering you or worsens, you can connect with a certified doctor or nurse practitioner from the convenience of your home.

They can swiftly assess and treat your sore throat, regardless of what's causing it.

Mobi Doctor can provide quick and convenient assistance for your healthcare needs, including diagnosis and treatment of sore throats, all from the comfort of your home.