ENT · Symptom
Sore throat
Also called: pharyngitis, scratchy throat, throat pain
Most sore throats are viral and resolve in a few days with rest, fluids, and ibuprofen — but strep throat, mono, and post-nasal drip all look similar at first. The CENTOR score (fever, tender neck nodes, tonsillar exudate, no cough) helps decide whether to test for strep. Clindle clinicians evaluate sore throat over video, order a rapid strep or throat culture at a lab near you when warranted, and prescribe penicillin or amoxicillin for confirmed strep. Drooling, severe one-sided pain, or trouble breathing means it's time for in-person care.