A sore throat can be a nuisance, but when it comes and goes, it can leave you confused and concerned. The intermittent nature of a sore throat can lead to uncertainty about its underlying cause and how to effectively manage it. Understanding the potential reasons behind a sore throat that fluctuates in severity can help you navigate the symptoms and seek appropriate medical care when needed.
For same-day sore/strep throat treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our urgent care center is open seven days a week and provides exceptional care to all patients in the Elizabeth, NJ area and surrounding communities. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance below.
Reasons For a Sore Throat That Comes and Goes
One common cause of a sore throat that comes and goes is viral infections. Viruses like the common cold and the flu can cause inflammation of the throat, leading to discomfort and pain. These infections often present with symptoms that fluctuate over several days, including a sore throat that may temporarily improve before worsening again. Another viral culprit behind a recurring sore throat is mononucleosis, commonly known as mono. Mono typically presents with symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and a sore throat that may persist for several weeks. The sore throat experience with mono can fluctuate in severity, making it challenging to predict when symptoms will improve or worsen.
Furthermore, environmental irritants like smoke, pollution, or dry air can also lead to intermittent throat discomfort. Allergies to airborne allergens like pollen, dust, and mold can also trigger throat pain and soreness, especially during peak allergy seasons.
Identifying Strep Throat Symptoms
In addition to viral infections, and environmental irritants, bacterial infections can also contribute to a sore throat that comes and goes. Streptococcal bacteria, responsible for strep throat, can cause recurrent episodes of throat pain, particularly if left untreated or if the initial treatment is incomplete. Strep throat symptoms can vary in severity and duration based on the effectiveness of treatment, severity of infection, and the overall health of the individual affected. If you experience any of the symptoms listed below, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a full medical evaluation and treatment plan.
Common strep throat symptoms include:
- Sore throat
- Painful swallowing or talking
- Red swollen tonsils with white patches or pus
- Tiny red spots on back of the mouth
- Fever
- Swollen tonsils and lymph nodes
- Headache
- Fatigue
When To Seek Medical Attention
If you experience a sore throat that comes and goes, it’s essential to pay attention to any accompanying symptoms and seek medical attention– especially if symptoms persist or worsen over time. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination, review your medical history, and recommend appropriate diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your fluctuating sore throat. Treatment for a sore throat that comes and goes will depend on the underlying cause. For viral infections, supportive care and pain relievers may help alleviate symptoms while the body fights off the infections. Antibiotics are generally necessary for bacterial infections like strep throat.
Get Same-Day Sore Throat Relief at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth
A sore throat that comes and goes can have various underlying causes. Understanding the potential reasons behind your symptoms can help you take the necessary steps to manage them and seek appropriate treatment. If you or a loved one is suffering from a persistent sore throat, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our urgent care center is open 365 days a year, seven days a week, and always accepts walk-in patients. Don’t ignore your symptoms! Our medical team specializes in diagnosing and treating sore/strep throat in patients of all ages. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about sore/strep throat treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (908) 677-5900.
