A member asked:

I have a sore throat for a few days now. don't know what it could be? last wednesday i felt a scratchy sensation in my throat. didn't think too much of it. woke up thursday morning coughing up dark brown phlegm with a sore throat. it's been five days now

A doctor has provided 1 answer

Dr. Michael Wolfe answered

Specializes in Head & Neck Surgery

Many : Many sore throats will last 7-10 days. Viral infections will resolve on their own. Bacterial infections may need an antibiotic00strep throat needs an antibiotic or there may be risk of complications down the road (kidney, heart). Given your smoking history, i would not wait much longer than that before getting a full evaluation. You are at an increased risk of oral/throat/larynx cancer.

Answered 3/3/2018

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A member asked:

I have a sore throat for a few days now. don't know what it could be? last wednesday i felt a scratchy sensation in my throat. didn't think too much of it. woke up thursday morning coughing up dark brown phlegm with a sore throat. it's been five days now

A doctor has provided 1 answer

Dr. Michael Wolfe answered

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