From the Research
Viral pharyngitis typically lasts between 3 to 7 days in most cases. The symptoms, which include sore throat, pain when swallowing, and possibly mild fever, generally peak within the first 2-3 days and then gradually improve. Treatment is primarily supportive since antibiotics are not effective against viruses. Patients can manage symptoms with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (325-650 mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 3000 mg daily) or ibuprofen (400-600 mg every 6-8 hours with food) 1. Throat lozenges, warm salt water gargles (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water), and adequate hydration can also provide relief. Rest is important to allow the immune system to fight the infection effectively. Some key points to consider when managing viral pharyngitis include:
- The mean duration of acute sore throat is 7 days, as stated in the updated German clinical practice guideline on sore throat 1
- Laboratory tests are not routinely necessary for diagnosis, and scores can be used to assess the risk of bacterial pharyngitis 1
- If symptoms persist beyond 7-10 days, worsen significantly, or if you develop difficulty breathing or swallowing, medical attention should be sought as these could indicate a bacterial infection or complications. It's also worth noting that some studies have investigated the efficacy of certain treatments for pharyngitis, such as flurbiprofen 8.75 mg lozenges, which have been shown to provide effective relief of pharyngeal symptoms in patients with streptococcal infection 2. However, the most recent and highest quality study on the topic of viral pharyngitis duration is from 2023, but the one that provides the most relevant information is from 2021 1.