Most sore throats last between 3 to 10 days, depending on the cause.
- Viral infections (such as the common cold or flu) typically cause sore throats that resolve on their own within about 7 to 10 days without antibiotics
- Bacterial infections like strep throat may last about a week but usually improve within 1 to 2 days after starting antibiotics, with symptoms disappearing within a week
- Chronic sore throats lasting more than 10 days may indicate other causes such as allergies, environmental irritants, or more serious conditions and require medical evaluation
- Sore throats caused by postnasal drip may persist as long as the underlying cause remains untreated
- In rare cases, viral infections like mononucleosis can cause sore throats lasting up to a month
In general, if a sore throat persists longer than 7 to 10 days, worsens, or is accompanied by severe symptoms, medical advice should be sought
. Summary:
- Typical sore throat duration: 3–10 days
- Strep throat with antibiotics: symptoms improve in 1–2 days, gone within a week
- Chronic or persistent sore throat: >10 days, needs evaluation
- Mononucleosis-related sore throat: up to 1 month
This timeline helps distinguish common, self-limiting sore throats from those needing treatment.
