A sore throat is one of those uncomfortable symptoms that can make swallowing, eating, and even talking feel like a chore. In most cases, sore throats are mild and short-lived, usually caused by conditions like colds, allergies, or a mild viral infection. But when your throat remains sore for more than a week or is severe, it’s natural to wonder if something more serious is going on. Understanding when a sore throat is harmless and when it signals a more serious condition can help you take timely action and avoid complications.
If you’re suffering from a severe or persistent sore throat, it’s important to seek medical care to rule out bacterial infections. At AFC Urgent Care Attleboro, our walk-in clinic offers same-day diagnosis and treatment for sore throats. Simply walk in when it’s convenient or save your spot in advance. We’re open every day from 8am to 8pm!
How Long Does a Sore Throat Normally Last?
Most sore throats caused by viral infections, such as the common cold or flu, typically resolve within three to seven days. During this period, you may feel mild pain, scratchiness, or hoarseness, but symptoms should gradually ease with rest, hydration, and home care. If your sore throat lasts beyond a week, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or fatigue, it’s worth consulting a healthcare provider. Persistent pain may signal an infection or other condition that needs treatment.
Possible Causes of a Persistent Sore Throat
When a sore throat doesn’t go away, several underlying causes might be involved:
- Strep throat: A bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes
- Allergies: Ongoing exposure to dust, mold, or pollen can inflame your throat
- Dry air or pollutants: Breathing dry indoor air or smoke can cause persistent irritation
- Acid reflux (GERD): Stomach acid traveling up the throat can lead to chronic soreness
- Viral infections: Some viruses last longer, mainly when your immune system is run down
When to Seek Medical Treatment for a Persistent Sore Throat
You should seek medical attention if your sore throat lasts more than a week, causes difficulty swallowing, or if you’re experiencing additional symptoms such as a high fever or swollen neck glands. Your medical provider will evaluate your symptoms, inspect your throat, and potentially swab your throat to check for bacterial growth. If you have strep throat, antibiotics are typically prescribed to clear up the infection.
A mild sore throat is often nothing to worry about, but when it lingers or worsens, it could signal a bacterial infection that needs prompt treatment. Seeking medical care early ensures you get a proper diagnosis, quick relief, and protection from further complications.
Walk into AFC Attleboro for Same-Day Sore Throat Diagnosis & Treatment
Sore throats can indicate a variety of different medical conditions, and can also be caused by environmental factors. While a mild sore throat is nothing to worry about, a severe or persistent sore throat that lasts more than a week likely indicates an infection like strep throat, which requires medical treatment. If you’re in need of convenient and affordable sore throat treatment, walk into AFC Urgent Care Attleboro!
At AFC Attleboro, we offer rapid same-day care for minor conditions on a walk-in basis! We treat patients of all ages, making our clinic a great alternative to visiting the ER or waiting for an appointment with your primary care provider to open up. We work with most medical insurance plans and offer affordable rates for self-paying patients. Walk into the clinic today for same-day care, or give us a call to learn more at (774) 254-9500.
