Throat hurt day 3 went to er for strep. dr said nothing was wrong and my throat wasnt even irritated. still hurts 3 days later. could it be serious?

Not strep ?: If they swabbed your throat and you tested neg for strep, antibiotics are usually not required.If the pain lasts longer than 1 wk, return to your doctor for further evaluation.

May not be strep: If you can't swallow, can't breathe, get seen again. Otherwise, we grade your illness. First, is there pus on the tonsils? Second, does the patient have fever? Third, do they not have a cough? Fourth, do they have tender lymph nodes (swollen glands) in the neck? And how old are they (44)? 4 or 5 points, get treated. 2 or 3, culture and wait. 0 or 1, do nothing.

Probably not but: That doesn't mean you don't hurt. You may have post-nasal drip, esp at night and or dry air. Allergies may also be a factor. Try using a saline nasal spray/mist (i like simply saline or similar one by neil med) every 2-3 hrs during day & at bedtime. Consider a humidifier by your bed at night. Treat any allergies. If none of these help, check w your pcp.

If you don't : Have strep and you don't have fever or difficulty opening your mouth, it is probably viral illness. If it persists for more than a week, so see your doctor.