Main content Sore Throat

    Sore Throat



    Preparing For Your Appointment

    To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Reference Making the Most of Your Appointment.

    You can help your doctor diagnose and treat your condition by being ready to answer the following questions:

    • When did your throat symptoms begin?
    • Do you have a fever? Describe your fever pattern.
    • Do other family members, friends, or coworkers have similar complaints?
    • Do you have other symptoms associated with the sore throat, such as a head cold?
    • What makes the pain worse?
    • Have you had your tonsils removed?
    • Have you been diagnosed with strep throat in the past? How long ago? Was it found during a doctor visit, with a rapid strep test or with a throat culture? How was it treated?
    • What Reference immunizations Opens New Window have you had?
    • What home treatment have you tried? Did it help?
    • What prescription and nonprescription medicines have you tried? Did they help?
    • Do you have any Reference health risks?



    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference December 21, 2011
    Medical Review: Reference William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
    Reference David Messenger, MD


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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