Sore throat - Diagnosis 

If you have a sore throat, a clinical diagnosis of the condition is usually not required, unless your symptoms do not improve after two weeks.

If you need to see your GP, they will ask you about your symptoms and examine your throat.

Blood tests may be carried out if your GP suspects that you have a type of viral infection called glandular fever (also known as infectious mononucleosis).

Referral

Your GP may refer you to another type of doctor or seek specialist advice if: 

• your immune system (the body’s defence system) is suppressed, which can be the result of some types of medication and some medical conditions
• you have severe oral mucositis (inflammation of the lining of your mouth, usually caused by radiotherapy or chemotherapy)
• you may need a tonsillectomy (a surgical procedure to remove your tonsils, the two lumps of tissue either side of your throat)

Admittance to hospital 

Your GP may admit you to hospital if you:

• have difficulty breathing
• are making a high-pitched sound as you breathe (stridor)
• are dehydrated (the normal water content of your body is reduced)
• have abscesses (painful collections of pus) in your mouth that may burst or block your airway
• are very unwell and your GP suspects another condition may be causing your sore throat