When does a cough with sore throat and sinus pain need treated?

Some thoughts...: New throat pain can be from a strep throat infection (antibiotics needed), a cold or influenza (antibiotics usually not used), or from some other cause such as allergies or irritants. Usually, a person sees the doctor if the sore throat is bothersome, recurrent, or doesn't go away quickly (mainly to look for strep). Throat lozenges and Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin (ibuprofen) may lessen pain.

Depends on duration: If the problem lasts less than 10 days, it is likely from a viral infection with the flu being the peak suspect at this time of the year If the problem persists for more than 10 days and not improving, it may be from a bacterial sinus infection which may require abx.