Fox Cities News

When experiencing a sore throat, it can be challenging to determine its cause. Dr. Glenn Vogelsang, a Family Medicine Physician at ThedaCare Physicians-Oshkosh, explains that "most sore throats will resolve on their own with home care measures," but it's crucial to watch for signs of strep throat.

Common symptoms of a sore throat include scratchiness, raspiness, and pain when swallowing. According to Dr. Vogelsang, "viruses are responsible for a lot of sore throat cases," but other causes may include allergies, tonsillitis, acid reflux, strep throat, and bacterial infections.

Strep throat is a bacterial infection with symptoms similar to viral sore throats. Dr. Vogelsang advises looking at the overall picture of symptoms: "If you also have cold symptoms, a virus is the likely cause." Strep symptoms include rapid onset throat pain and painful swallowing.

Testing for strep involves a throat swab and lab test. "If you suspect strep throat, it’s important to get tested," warns Dr. Vogelsang due to potential complications like kidney inflammation or rheumatic fever if untreated.

For viral infections not treatable by antibiotics, comfort measures can ease symptoms as suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: using lozenges (not for children under 4), warm water with honey, gargling salt water or peroxide followed by mouthwash, drinking fluids (excluding alcohol), and using over-the-counter pain relievers.

Dr. Vogelsang emphasizes seeking medical care if symptoms worsen or persist beyond a few days. For severe cases involving significant swelling or difficulty swallowing, steroids may be prescribed.

Preventive steps against sore throats include frequent hand washing or using hand sanitizer when necessary; coughing or sneezing into tissues or elbows; avoiding sharing utensils; and staying away from sick individuals.

Dr. Vogelsang concludes that while enduring a sore throat is unpleasant, rest and proper care should lead to recovery soon: “And when you need care,” he notes, “you have options including in-person, virtual, and urgent care options.”