Sore throat care online

A sore throat often comes with a cold and improves within a week. Strep throat, caused by bacteria, is less common but needs antibiotics. Signs that point more toward strep:

• Fever and sudden throat pain without a cough or runny nose
• Red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches
• Tender, swollen glands at the front of the neck
• Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth

On video your provider can look at your throat with your phone's light, ask about your symptoms and decide how likely strep is. Strep can only be confirmed with a test, so if it is likely, your provider will arrange a rapid strep test nearby or explain your options.

For a viral sore throat you get a practical plan: pain relief, warm drinks, honey, lozenges and rest, plus clear signs to watch for.

• Penicillin or amoxicillin when strep throat is confirmed (other antibiotics if you are allergic)
• Pain relief such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, throat lozenges and sprays

Only when it is right for you: your provider checks your symptoms, allergies, other medicines and health history first. Prescriptions go to the pharmacy you choose.

• Gargle with warm salt water
• Warm drinks with honey (not for babies under 1)
• Lozenges or ice pops
• Rest your voice

• You can't swallow your saliva, or you are drooling
• Breathing is difficult or noisy
• Your voice sounds muffled, or you can't open your mouth fully
• One side of the throat is much more swollen than the other
• You have a stiff neck, a rash with fever, or feel very unwell

A virtual visit is not an emergency service. For chest pain, trouble breathing, severe bleeding, signs of a stroke or a serious injury, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If you are thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) at any time.

See a licensed provider by video or phone for these too.