Persistent Sore Throat: When to Seek Further Medical Attention?

Persistent sore throat?

Hello doctor, I experienced symptoms of a cold on the first day, including cough, green phlegm, and sore throat (without fever).
After visiting a doctor, I took antibiotics for three days, and my sore throat improved, but my cough and green phlegm did not get better.
I returned for a second consultation, and the doctor prescribed expectorants and cough suppressants.
After taking the medication for two days, my sore throat returned and persisted for two days, prompting me to see a third doctor.
This time, the doctor prescribed Curam 625 antibiotics.
After taking them for three days, my cough and green phlegm showed some improvement, but I still experience pain on the lower side of my throat when drinking water, and it also hurts when swallowing saliva in the morning when my throat is dry.
Should I see a doctor again, or should I finish the seven-day course of medication and then reassess my condition?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/15

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if there is no obvious fever and symptoms have partially improved, you may complete the 7-day course of medication before returning for a follow-up examination.

Reply Date: 2024/07/15

More Info

Persistent sore throat can be a frustrating and concerning symptom, especially when it lingers despite treatment. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing a series of upper respiratory symptoms, including a sore throat, cough, and green phlegm, which have not fully resolved despite multiple visits to the doctor and courses of antibiotics.

First and foremost, it is important to understand that a sore throat can be caused by various factors, including viral infections, bacterial infections (such as streptococcal pharyngitis), allergies, irritants, or even gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In your case, it appears that the initial treatment with antibiotics helped alleviate the sore throat but did not fully resolve the cough and phlegm production. The subsequent development of throat pain after starting cough and expectorant medications raises some questions about the underlying cause of your symptoms.

Given that you have already seen your doctor multiple times and have been prescribed different medications, it is advisable to consider a few factors before deciding whether to seek further medical attention:
1. Duration of Symptoms: If your sore throat persists beyond a week or two, especially if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, fever, or swollen lymph nodes, it is important to consult your healthcare provider again. Chronic sore throat can sometimes indicate a more serious condition that may require further evaluation.

2. Response to Treatment: Since you mentioned that your sore throat improved initially with antibiotics but then returned after starting new medications, it may be worth discussing this with your doctor. Sometimes, the medications prescribed for cough and phlegm can irritate the throat, especially if they contain certain ingredients that may dry out the throat or cause a sensation of tightness.

3. Hydration and Humidification: Ensure that you are staying well-hydrated and consider using a humidifier in your living space, especially if you are experiencing dryness in the throat upon waking. This can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

4. Completion of Current Medication: If your doctor has prescribed a seven-day course of antibiotics, it is generally advisable to complete the full course, even if you are still experiencing symptoms. However, if your symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.

5. Follow-Up Appointment: If your sore throat continues to be bothersome after completing the antibiotics, or if you have any concerns about the severity of your symptoms, it would be prudent to schedule a follow-up appointment. Your doctor may want to perform a throat culture or other diagnostic tests to determine the exact cause of your persistent symptoms.

In summary, while it is important to complete your current medication, you should also monitor your symptoms closely. If your sore throat persists or worsens, or if you experience any new symptoms, it is advisable to seek further medical attention. Your health and comfort are paramount, and your healthcare provider can help determine the best course of action based on your specific situation.

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