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Sore Throat

When To See Your Doctor

By , About.com Guide

Updated October 24, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

You should contact your doctor if you have a sore throat and any of the following symptoms.

  1. When accompanied by white patches in the throat.
  2. When accompanied by fever for more than 2 days.
  3. When accompanied by cough that produces mucous or cough that lasts for more than a week.
  4. When a child has a harsh, barking cough (may sound like a seal bark).
  5. When accompanied by peeling in the mouth and swollen gums and tongue.

You should always contact your doctor if you are concerned about your sore throat.

Reference:
"Familydoctor.org." Throat Problems. 1996. American Academy of Family Physicians. 24 Oct 2006 <http://familydoctor.org/x2551.xml>.

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