Treatment:

The treatment depends on the underlying cause. Viral infections are managed with warm salt water gargles, pain relievers, and fluids. Antibiotics are needed if strep throat is diagnosed.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most cases of pharyngitis go away on their own, without complications.

Complications:

• The possible complications of strep throat include rheumatic fever, kidney inflammation, chorea, bacteremia (bloodstream infection) and, rarely, streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.
• In some severe forms of pharyngitis (e.g., severe mononucleosis pharyngitis) the airway may become blocked.
• Abscess around the tonsils or behind the pharynx are possible.

Calling your health care provider:

Notify your provider if you develop a persistent sore throat that does not disappear in several days, or if you have high fevers, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, or a rash. If you have a sore throat and develop difficulty breathing, you must seek medical care immediately.