Sore throats and oral ulcers

Abstract

Most sore throats with which patients present in the pharmacy are viral in origin. Only approximately one in 10 are due to a bacterial infection. It is not possible to tell the difference between a viral and a bacterial throat infection without performing a throat swab and culture. Sore throats are often associated with symptoms of a cold. In many cases, a sore throat is the first indication that a person is getting sick. However, streptococcal (bacterial) throat infections are more likely in children and require antibiotic therapy. Nonetheless, most sore throats are self-limiting and resolve within a few days without any treatment.