General practice · BTS Punnawithi, Bangkok
Sore Throat & Tonsillitis Care
Painful swallowing, swollen tonsils or a scratchy throat? Understand the likely causes and get treatment selected for your symptoms.
What causes a sore throat?
Most sore throats are caused by viruses. Bacterial infections such as strep throat are another possibility, while allergies, smoke and irritation can also cause discomfort. Tonsillitis means inflamed tonsils; it does not automatically mean a bacterial infection or a need for antibiotics. Kauri assesses the cause and how much the symptoms affect swallowing and daily life.
Can symptoms tell viral and bacterial infections apart?
Cough, a runny nose and hoarseness often accompany a viral illness. Strep throat may cause sudden throat pain, fever and tender neck glands, usually without a cough. There is overlap: white patches on the tonsils alone are not a reliable diagnosis. A throat swab or rapid test may help when strep is suspected; the doctor explains whether testing is needed.
Sources: [3]
What happens at a sore-throat consultation?
The doctor reviews the duration of pain, fever, ability to drink, voice changes and any repeated episodes. Examination focuses on the throat, tonsils and neck, alongside relevant vital signs. Bring your medicine list and mention antibiotic allergies. One-sided swelling, difficulty opening the mouth or rapid deterioration changes the urgency of care.
Which treatments help a sore throat?
Pain relief, adequate fluids and soothing measures can make swallowing more comfortable. Kauri can provide suitable medication following assessment. When a bacterial infection such as confirmed strep throat requires antibiotics, the doctor chooses treatment and explains the course. Antibiotics do not speed recovery from a viral sore throat. Repeated tonsillitis may need further evaluation rather than repeating the same medicine each time.
When should you feel better?
Many sore throats improve within a week; tonsillitis often settles in several days but can last longer. Seek review if pain is worsening, you cannot drink comfortably or symptoms are not improving. When antibiotics are prescribed for strep, follow the full prescribed course and return if the expected improvement does not occur.
Common questions
Do all swollen tonsils need antibiotics?
No. Viruses can also inflame the tonsils. Examination and, when indicated, testing help decide whether antibiotics would treat the cause.
Are white spots always strep throat?
No. White patches can occur in different conditions. The doctor considers the whole symptom pattern and whether a throat test would clarify the diagnosis.
Should I mention repeated sore throats?
Yes. Note how often episodes occur, any test results and treatments used. Recurrent or persistent symptoms may need a different investigation or a specialist opinion.
Kauri Health Clinic
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Tell us your symptoms, when they started and any treatment you have already tried. Bring your medication list, allergies and relevant records so your doctor can plan the next step with you.
Doctor consultation · 500 baht
The fee shown is for the doctor consultation. Ask the team about any medicine or test charges before treatment.
3063 Sukhumvit Rd, Bang Chak, Phra Khanong, Bangkok 10260 · BTS Punnawithi
Tuesday–Saturday, 9:00–18:00. Closed Sunday and Monday.
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Sources checked: 17 October 2026
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