A sore throat is one of the most common and uncomfortable symptoms of the flu. While it may seem minor compared to fever, body aches, and fatigue, a persistent sore throat can interfere with eating, drinking, and sleeping. Understanding how long it typically lasts, why it happens, and how to care for your throat can help you recover more comfortably. In this blog, we’ll explore the duration of a flu-related sore throat and when it might be time to seek professional treatment.
For same-day sore throat relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer. Our team can diagnose the cause of your symptoms and provide the best treatment possible. Simply walk in or plan your visit in advance below!
Why The Flu Causes a Sore Throat
The flu is caused by the influenza virus, which infects the upper respiratory tract, including the throat. The virus triggers inflammation, which leads to pain, scratchiness, and irritation. Some additional sore throat triggers during the flu include:
- Coughing and post-nasal drip from the infection can further irritate the throat
- Dry mouth from fever or dehydration may worsen discomfort
- Immune response produces inflammation as your body fights off the virus
Even after the fever and other flu symptoms subside, this inflammation can cause your sore throat to linger.
Typical Duration of a Flu-Related Sore Throat
For most adults, a sore throat from the flu lasts between 3 and 7 days. The timeline may vary depending on factors such as:
- Severity of the infection: More severe cases can cause prolonged inflammation
- Individual immune response: People with weaker immune systems may experience slower recovery
- Secondary irritation: Coughing, post-nasal drip, or dry air can extend discomfort
In some cases, a mild sore throat may persist 1 to 2 weeks after other flu symptoms have resolved. This is often due to residual inflammation in the throat rather than ongoing infection.
Managing Flu-Related Throat Pain
While most sore throats improve on their own, there are several ways to relieve discomfort:
- Stay hydrated: Warm teas, bros, and water will help soothe irritation and keep mucus thin
- Gargle with warm salt water: This reduces swelling and kills bacteria in the throat
- Use throat lozenges or sprays: Provide temporary relief from pain and scratchiness
- Humidify your environment: Moist air can prevent dryness that worsens a sore throat
- Rest and recover: Your body needs time to fight the virus and heal inflamed tissues
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers can reduce throat pain and fever
Most sore throats resolve without medical intervention, but urgent care is recommended if you notice severe or worsening pain, high fever, white patches or pus in the throat, and symptoms that last longer than 10 days without improvement.
At urgent care, providers can evaluate whether your sore throat is still viral, if it has developed into a secondary bacterial infection like strep, and provide guidance on treatment and symptom management.
Get Same-Day Sore Throat Relief at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer
A sore throat is a common symptom of the flu, usually lasting 3 to 7 days, but sometimes lingering slightly longer due to residual inflammation. Staying hydrated, resting, and using supportive remedies can help ease discomfort. However, if your sore throat is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer. Our team can provide evaluation and treatment to ensure a safe, smooth recovery. We are open 7 days a week to provide exceptional care to all patients in Denver, CO. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about sore throat treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 733-4000.
