Cold, flu & breathing

Sore throat: virtual care options

A sore throat is pain, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat that often gets worse when you swallow. Most are caused by viruses like a cold, but bacteria such as strep can also be the cause.

See virtual care for Sore throat

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Common symptoms

What people often notice. Only a provider can tell you what’s causing yours.

Pain or scratchiness in the throat
Pain that gets worse when swallowing or talking
Swollen, tender glands in the neck
Red or swollen tonsils
Hoarse or muffled voice

What a virtual visit may involve

Care is decided by the provider, based on your situation.

A video or online visit where a licensed provider asks about your symptoms and may look at your throat on camera
A provider decides whether a strep test is needed before treatment
Prescriptions, if appropriate, can be sent to a pharmacy near you
Ways to soothe your throat and stay hydrated at home

When in-person care may be better

Urgent care, your doctor, or a clinic can examine and test you.

A provider wants a strep test or throat exam
A young child has a sore throat with fever
The sore throat lasts longer than about a week
You keep getting sore throats or tonsil infections

When to go to the ER

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:

Trouble breathing or noisy breathing
Trouble swallowing, or drooling because you cannot swallow
Unable to open your mouth fully
Swelling in the neck or one side of the throat
A muffled voice with severe throat pain

Ready to explore a virtual visit for Sore throat?

Check availability, pricing, and care details directly with the provider. You’ll leave ER.com when you continue.

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Common questions

Sore throat, answered.

General information, not medical advice. A provider can answer questions about your situation.

When should I see a doctor for a sore throat?

Talk to a provider if your sore throat comes with a fever, swollen glands, white patches on the tonsils, or lasts more than a few days. Seek emergency care right away for trouble breathing or swallowing.

Can a sore throat be treated online?

Many sore throats can be evaluated through a virtual visit. A provider may recommend home care, prescribe treatment if appropriate, or ask you to get a strep test in person.

How long does a sore throat last?

A sore throat from a virus usually improves within about a week. If it lasts longer or keeps getting worse, check in with a provider.

This is not for emergencies.

For life-threatening symptoms, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.