Coughs and Colds

Since your sore throat is accompanied by a runny or stuffy nose or sneezing, you probably do not have "strep throat." Your sore throat is much more likely to be caused by a virus. It is probably not a threatening infection. Unless you are having other symptoms that raise your concern, you do not need to visit your doctor unless you would like to receive your own doctor's advice about over-the-counter treatment options.

Antibiotics are unlikely to be of benefit. You may find relief from over-the-counter throat lozenges containing soothing ingredients such as menthol or camphor. Pain medicines such as Tylenol, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen sodium (Aleve) are excellent treatments for a sore throat.

If your symptoms are getting worse or persist, contact your doctor's office.

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Online Medical Reviewer: McDonald, Thad, MD Date Last Reviewed: 5/4/2006 Date Last Modified: 3/30/2006 Source: from Harvard Health Decision Guides, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

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