How long should a sore throat last?

Less than a week: Viral sorethoats usually last only 3-5 days at most. Strep throat can last longer without treatment. Should get checked for strep if fever >3 days, body aches, white spots on tonsils, tender glands in neck. Mononucleosis and sorethroat from allergies or acid reflux can last much longer. Should probably get any sorethroat that lasts longer than 10 days checked out.

Depends: Viral illness better in a couple days. Bacterial sore throat better in a few days once antibiotic started. Chronic tonsillitis and tumors cause constant throat pain. Sore throat longer than 2-3 weeks needs ENT evaluation.