My throat hurts to swallow

A persistent sore throat can be viral, bacterial (strep), or post-nasal drip. A provider can assess your symptoms online and prescribe antibiotics if needed.

Also called: sore throat · strep throat symptoms · painful swallowing

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD
MD · Board-Certified, Internal Medicine · Last reviewed

Get care for strep throat online

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Sore throat / strep visit
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Seek urgent care or the ER if you have:

  • Symptoms that are sudden, severe, or rapidly worsening
  • High fever (over 103°F / 39.4°C) that doesn't respond to treatment
  • Chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or confusion
  • Signs of dehydration — dizziness, dark urine, unable to keep fluids down
  • Symptoms in someone who is pregnant, immunocompromised, or over 65

What my throat hurts to swallow could be

The most common causes a clinician considers. This isn't a diagnosis — it's the differential a provider works through with you.

Sore throat / pharyngitis

Sore throat / pharyngitis is one of the more common causes of my throat hurts to swallow. Ondoc can evaluate it online.

Sinus infection

Sinus infection is one of the more common causes of my throat hurts to swallow. Ondoc can evaluate it online.

Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD — Medical Director
Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD

Board-Certified · Internal Medicine · Medical Director

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