What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Sore Throat (Pharyngitis)

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for a sore throat, you will usually receive advice on how to relieve your symptoms and information on when to seek further care. Many sore throats are caused by viruses and get better without antibiotics. Your healthcare provider may suggest rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers. If your sore throat is caused by bacteria, such as strep throat, you might be prescribed antibiotics. Your provider will also explain signs to watch for that mean you should seek urgent care. Follow-up steps may include monitoring your symptoms, completing any prescribed medications, and possibly scheduling an in-person visit if symptoms worsen or do not improve. Telemedicine is a helpful way to get quick advice but may not replace the need for physical exams or tests in some cases.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately.
• Unable to swallow saliva or severe throat pain — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• High fever (above 39°C or 102°F) lasting more than 48 hours — seek prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of sore throat symptoms.
• Providing advice on symptom relief and home care.
• Prescribing medications when appropriate based on history and symptoms.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing throat swab tests to confirm bacterial infection.
• Physical examination of the throat and neck.
• Managing severe or worsening symptoms requiring emergency care.
• Diagnosing complications such as abscesses or airway obstruction.

What to Expect Immediately After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms and may give you a treatment plan during the visit. This might include advice on home care, medications to take, and warning signs to watch for. You may receive prescriptions electronically if needed. Make sure you understand the instructions and ask questions before ending the visit.

Common Treatments for Sore Throat

Most sore throats improve with simple care such as resting your voice, drinking warm fluids, and using over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If a bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed. Avoid antibiotics if your provider says your sore throat is viral, as they won't help and can cause side effects.

When to Seek Further Medical Care

If your symptoms get worse, such as increased pain, difficulty swallowing, high fever, or breathing problems, you should seek in-person medical care promptly. Sometimes, a physical exam or lab tests are needed to diagnose and treat complications.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Keep track of your symptoms and how you feel each day. If you were prescribed antibiotics, take the full course even if you feel better. If symptoms do not improve after a few days or if new symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider for further advice or an in-person evaluation.

How Telemedicine Helps and Its Limits

Telemedicine allows you to quickly connect with a healthcare provider from home, which can be convenient and reduce exposure to others. However, some conditions require physical exams or tests that can only be done in person. Your provider will advise you if an in-person visit is necessary.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your current symptoms and when they started.
• Note any other health conditions or medications you are taking.
• Prepare to describe your symptoms clearly, including pain level and difficulty swallowing.
• Ensure you have a quiet, private space with good internet or phone connection.
• Have a thermometer ready to report your temperature if possible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan given by your healthcare provider.
• Take any prescribed medications exactly as directed.
• Rest your voice and stay hydrated with warm fluids.
• Monitor your symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Seek in-person care if you develop any red-flag symptoms or if symptoms worsen or do not improve in a few days.

FAQs

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

Yes, if your healthcare provider suspects a bacterial infection like strep throat based on your symptoms, they may prescribe antibiotics during the telemedicine visit. However, many sore throats are viral and do not require antibiotics.

What should I do if my sore throat gets worse after the telemedicine visit?

If your symptoms worsen, such as increased pain, difficulty swallowing, high fever, or breathing problems, you should seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine providers will advise you if an urgent evaluation is needed.

How long does it usually take for a sore throat to get better?

Most sore throats caused by viruses improve within 5 to 7 days with home care. If you have a bacterial infection and take antibiotics, symptoms often improve within 2 to 3 days after starting treatment.

Can I use over-the-counter medicines to relieve my sore throat?

Yes, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce throat pain and fever. Throat lozenges and warm saltwater gargles may also provide relief.

When should I follow up after a telemedicine visit for a sore throat?

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if you develop new or worsening symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for further advice or an in-person evaluation.

Sources

1. Sore Throat — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
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 information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine can provide valuable guidance but does not replace in-person evaluation when needed. If you have serious or worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.