How to prepare for a video visit about Sore Throat (Pharyngitis)

Audience: adult

A sore throat, also called pharyngitis, is a common condition that causes pain, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergies, or other irritants. Many sore throats improve on their own, but some may need medical attention. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand the cause of your sore throat and get advice on how to feel better. During the visit, your provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and may guide you on when to seek in-person care. Preparing for your video visit can help make the appointment more effective. This guide explains how to get ready, what to expect, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine can help with many sore throat concerns but cannot replace emergency or in-person examinations when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Unable to swallow saliva or excessive drooling — go to emergency services.
• High fever over 39°C (102°F) that does not improve with medication — contact healthcare provider urgently.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of common sore throat symptoms and history taking.
• Visual inspection of the throat using video.
• Advice on home care and symptom management.
• Determining if further in-person evaluation or testing is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing throat swab tests or rapid strep tests.
• Diagnosing complicated infections or abscesses requiring physical examination.
• Treating severe airway obstruction or emergencies.
• Prescribing controlled substances without in-person evaluation.

What is a Sore Throat (Pharyngitis)?

A sore throat means your throat feels painful, scratchy, or irritated. It often happens when the tissues in the throat become inflamed. Common causes include viral infections like the cold or flu, bacterial infections such as strep throat, allergies, dry air, or irritants like smoke. Symptoms may include pain when swallowing, swollen glands, or a hoarse voice.

How Telemedicine Can Help with a Sore Throat

During a video visit, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, such as how long your throat has been sore, whether you have a fever, cough, or rash, and other health details. They may visually examine your throat using the camera and guide you on home care steps. Telemedicine can help decide if you need medicine, tests, or an in-person visit. It offers convenient access to care while keeping you safe at home.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

To get the most from your video visit, prepare ahead:

When to Seek Urgent In-Person Care

Some symptoms require immediate medical attention. Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience:

These signs may indicate a serious infection or blockage.

After Your Video Visit: Next Steps

Follow the advice given by your healthcare provider. This may include:

If your provider advises an in-person exam or tests, arrange these promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with good internet connection for your video visit.
• Have a list of your symptoms, including when they started and any changes.
• Prepare to show your throat to the camera if requested by your provider.
• Have a thermometer ready to check your temperature before the visit.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss during the appointment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and advice provided by your healthcare provider.
• Use home remedies such as warm saltwater gargles and stay hydrated.
• Rest and avoid irritants like smoke or strong odors.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or worsening.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms do not improve or new symptoms develop.
• Seek in-person care immediately if you experience red flag symptoms.

FAQs

Can a healthcare provider diagnose strep throat through a video visit?

While a provider can assess your symptoms and visually examine your throat via video, they cannot perform a throat swab or rapid strep test remotely. If strep throat is suspected, you may be advised to have an in-person test.

What home remedies can help relieve a sore throat?

Common home remedies include drinking warm fluids, gargling with saltwater, using throat lozenges, humidifying the air, and resting your voice. Avoid irritants like smoke and dry air.

When should I go to the emergency room for a sore throat?

Seek emergency care if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe throat pain, drooling, swelling of the neck or face, or a high fever that does not improve with medication.

Can I get antibiotics through a telemedicine visit for a sore throat?

Antibiotics are only recommended if a bacterial infection like strep throat is diagnosed. Your provider may prescribe antibiotics after evaluating your symptoms and may require an in-person test before prescribing.

How long does a typical sore throat last?

Most sore throats caused by viruses improve within 5 to 7 days. If symptoms last longer or worsen, seek medical advice.

Sources

1. Sore Throat — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Pharyngitis (Sore Throat) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Sore Throat: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Pharyngitis — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This educational content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Telemedicine can help evaluate symptoms but may not replace the need for in-person care. If you have serious or worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.