Primary Care Sick Visits in McLean, VA: Sore Throat—When to See a Doctor

Sore throats can show up for many reasons, and it’s not always easy to know the cause on your own.

You may be wondering if it’s serious enough to require testing and lab services or if it’s something you can treat at home. That’s where primary care sick visits in McLean, VA come into the picture.

These appointments help you eliminate guesswork and find answers quickly.

Causes and Symptoms: Mild Irritation or Serious Condition

Also referred to as pharyngitis, a sore throat happens when the tissues in the back of the mouth or throat become irritated or inflamed. This discomfort can make swallowing painful and may feel scratchy, dry, or tender.

Viruses cause most cases, but bacteria, allergies, dry air, or even environmental irritants like smoke can trigger it.

Common symptoms include redness, swelling, hoarseness, a persistent tickle, and some inflamed glands in the neck. Depending on the cause, you might also notice fever, cough, or congestion.

Primary care sick visits in McLean, VA should be scheduled when the pain is severe, symptoms last longer than a week, come with a high fever, or swollen tonsils with white patches.

Primary Care Sick Visits in McLean, VA: What to Expect During the Appointment

When you see a provider for a sore throat, they start by asking questions about your symptoms and overall health history.

They examine the throat, check for redness or swelling, and may feel the neck to check for enlarged glands.

If a bacterial infection is suspected, a rapid strep test or throat culture might be performed. Once results are clear, the provider explains the cause of the irritation.

Treatment recommendations are also given and may include rest, fluids, over-the-counter remedies for pain / fever. If bacteria is responsible, antibiotics may be prescribed.

They also review warning signs to monitor and offer guidance on when to return if symptoms don’t improve.

Virginia Family Medicine Is Your Ally Against Sore Throat Woes!

Ready to feel better? Call us at 703-383-4836 today to book an appointment with a provider who listens, understands, and helps you find the relief you need.