Sore Throats

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can access exceptional care for sore throats. As a global leader in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For over a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for ear, nose and throat (ENT) and head and neck conditions.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for complex specialty care according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of ENT and head and neck conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists has pioneered many of the otorhinolaryngological techniques used today and is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety.

When you need sore throat care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.

Sore throats can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Allergies and sensitivity to pollen, pet dander or other airborne particles may lead to throat discomfort
• Bacterial infections, including strep throat (caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria), a primary bacterial culprit
• Irritants, including dry air, smoke, pollution or acid reflux
• Tonsillitis or inflammation in the tonsils
• Chronic conditions, including postnasal drip or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Viral infections, including colds, flu and mononucleosis (mono)

Sore throat can lead to a range of symptoms, including:

• Difficulty swallowing or speaking
• Fever, chills or general fatigue (common with infections)
• Hoarseness or loss of voice
• Pain or scratchiness in the throat
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches (in cases like strep throat or tonsillitis)

To diagnose a sore throat, your healthcare provider will discuss your symptoms and medical history. The physician will also conduct a physical exam of your throat, ears and nasal passages. In many cases, a throat swab will be used to detect streptococcal bacteria, the cause of strep throat.

We provide a wide variety of treatment options to manage sore throat, including:

• Symptom relief with over-the-counter or prescription lozenges and hydration strategies to soothe pain
• Medications including antibiotics for bacterial infections like strep throat and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling and pain
• Surgical procedures, including tonsillectomy for recurrent tonsillitis or chronic sore throats that do not respond to other treatments