The outcome was the same whether the patients took antibiotics immediately, after the sore throat didn't clear up within a few days or didn't take antibiotics at all. The only difference was that patients who took antibiotics were more likely to go back to the doctor the next time they had a sore throat. Sore throats usually clear up in the same amount of time, with the same chance of complications, whether or not the patient has sought medical care. One reason may be that many sore throats are caused by viruses, which aren't affected by antibiotics. An increase in bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics can be attributed to too many people taking antibiotics when they aren't necessary.
Most sore throats get better in less than a week.
In the meantime, doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center suggest drinking plenty of liquids and gargling with warm, salty water to ease the discomfort. Some sore throats can be signs of more serious illness. Call your doctor if the sore throat comes along with a high fever, reddish rash on the face or a cough that produces yellow or greenish phlegm. Your doctor can tell you whether or not you need medical treatment. Other Topics Health Watch is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional.