Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment Of A Sore Throat

5. Diagnosis

A physical exam will need to be done to detect the cause of a sore throat. A doctor may look into the throat, ears, and nose using a lighted instrument to check for visual signs of infection or airway blockages. A physician may also check for swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck and jaw and utilize a stethoscope to listen for breathing problems. A throat swab may be needed to detect what type of infection is present. If cultures are sent to a laboratory, results are usually available within forty-eight hours.