Sore throat without other symptoms
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Understanding Sore Throat Without Other Symptoms
Common Causes of Sore Throat
A sore throat, medically known as pharyngitis, is a frequent complaint among patients. It is typically caused by viral or bacterial infections, leading to discomfort, pain, or scratchiness in the throat1 3. While sore throats often accompany other symptoms such as fever or cough, they can sometimes present in isolation.
Sore Throat in the Context of COVID-19
During the COVID-19 pandemic, sore throats have been noted among the symptoms of the disease. However, they are relatively rare compared to more common symptoms like fever and cough2. This suggests that while a sore throat can be a symptom of COVID-19, it is not a definitive indicator on its own.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Most sore throats are self-limiting and resolve without complications. However, persistent sore throats that do not improve with symptomatic treatment may require further investigation. For instance, a case study highlighted a patient with a persistent sore throat who was eventually diagnosed with Lemierre's syndrome, a rare but serious condition4. This underscores the importance of seeking medical attention if a sore throat persists or worsens.
Treatment Options
Symptomatic Treatment
For most cases of sore throat, especially those caused by viral infections, symptomatic treatment is sufficient. This includes rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers1 3.
Antibiotics
The use of antibiotics for sore throats remains controversial. A randomized controlled trial found that cefixime, an antibiotic, improved symptom resolution compared to a placebo, even in patients without group A beta-haemolytic streptococcus (GABHS)6. Another comprehensive review concluded that antibiotics can reduce the duration of symptoms and prevent complications, but the absolute benefits are modest7. Therefore, antibiotics are generally reserved for bacterial infections confirmed by a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
A sore throat without other symptoms is often a minor issue that resolves on its own. However, persistent or severe cases should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions. While symptomatic treatment is usually adequate, antibiotics may be necessary for bacterial infections. Understanding the underlying cause of a sore throat is crucial for appropriate management.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
How to treat a sore throat
Minor sore throats can often resolve on their own, but if the pain persists or the soreness worsens, seek medical attention.
Sore throat in COVID‐19: Comment on “Clinical characteristics of hospitalized patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: A single arm meta‐analysis”
COVID-19 patients often experience fever, cough, muscle soreness, and fatigue, but rarely experience diarrhea, hemoptysis, headache, sore throat, shock, and other rare symptoms.
Meta-AnalysisHow to treat a sore throat : colds and flu
Minor sore throats can often resolve on their own, but if the pain persists for more than a few days, or if the sore throat is accompanied by fever, sneezing, or a runny or watery discharge, seek medical attention.
Not just a simple sore throat.
A persistent sore throat may indicate a more serious condition, such as Lemierre's syndrome, and further investigation is necessary.
Case ReportThe Patient with Sore Throat
A sore throat can be caused by an infectious, inflammatory, or neoplastic factor, and a directed history can help narrow down the possible diagnoses.
Case ReportA randomized controlled trial of antibiotics on symptom resolution in patients presenting to their general practitioner with a sore throat.
Cefixime can improve symptom resolution in patients with a sore throat compared to placebo, with potential benefits for patients without group A beta-haemolytic streptococcus.
RCTAntibiotics for sore throat.
Antibiotics provide relative benefits in treating sore throat symptoms, but their absolute benefits are modest.
Very Rigorous Journal
Highly Cited[Update on current care guidelines: sore throat].
Pharyngitis is typically a viral infection, and patients should be informed that it is often mild and self-healing, with a throat swab recommended for adults with certain symptoms.
Antibiotics for sore throat.
Antibiotics effectively reduce symptoms of headache, throat soreness, and fever, and may prevent suppurative complications of sore throat.
Highly CitedAntibiotics for treatment of sore throat in children and adults.
Antibiotics effectively reduce sore throat symptoms in children and adults, but their use is limited by the high prevalence of serious complications and potential overuse.
Very Rigorous Journal