Sore throat in most cases is a self limiting condition which resolves in about one to two weeks. Acute respiratory tract infections may be bacterial or viral.

Symptoms include pain and tenderness at the back of the throat, bad breath and swollen glands


  • Sore throat that has not improved after a week
  • Frequent sore throat
  • The patient is concerned about their sore throat
  • Patient has a very high temperature and/or feels hot and shivery
  • Breathing/swallowing difficulty
  • Symptoms of severe dehydration – such as dizziness, confusion, nausea
  • Stridor – a high-pitched sound that can be heard during breathing
  • Patient has a weak-immune system through taking medicine
  • Severe symptoms which are rapidly worsening