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Pain, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat that often worsens when swallowing. One of the most common reasons people seek medical advice.
There are several possible causes. Here are the most common ones:
The most common cause of sore throats. Usually accompanied by other cold symptoms.
You might suspect this if you have:
A bacterial infection that may require antibiotic treatment.
You might suspect this if you have:
Environmental factors like dry air, pollution, or allergens.
You might suspect this if you have:
Stomach acid irritating the throat, especially at night.
You might suspect this if you have:
Infection and inflammation of the tonsils.
You might suspect this if you have:
Important: This information is for general guidance only and should not be used to self-diagnose. A doctor can properly assess your symptoms and provide appropriate advice.
Call 000 or go to Emergency immediately
When assessing a sore throat, the first question I ask myself is whether this is likely viral or bacterial — because the treatment is completely different. The majority of sore throats (around 70-80%) are viral and will resolve on their own. I use the modified Centor criteria to estimate the probability of strep throat: sudden onset, high fever, tonsillar exudate, swollen anterior cervical lymph nodes, and absence of cough each score a point. A score of 3 or more raises the probability enough to consider antibiotics. What I am most alert to is peritonsillar abscess (quinsy) — a unilateral swelling that causes difficulty opening the mouth, a muffled voice, and drooling. This requires urgent drainage. For most sore throats, effective pain management with paracetamol, ibuprofen, and salt water gargles is genuinely all that is needed.
Medical certificate guidance: A sore throat severe enough to prevent speaking normally, swallowing, or concentrating warrants a medical certificate. Most people need 2-3 days. If you work in a customer-facing or phone-based role, voice rest may require slightly longer.
All clinical decisions are made by AHPRA-registered doctors following our clinical governance framework. We never automate clinical decisions.
Yes. If your sore throat is affecting your ability to work, especially if combined with other symptoms like fever or difficulty swallowing, you can get a medical certificate.
Most sore throats are viral and don't need antibiotics. Antibiotics are only helpful for bacterial infections like strep throat. A doctor can help determine if you need them.
Viral sore throats typically improve within 5-7 days. If it lasts longer than a week or is severe, it's worth getting checked.
If caused by a viral or bacterial infection, yes. Good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact can help prevent spreading it.
If your symptoms are keeping you from work or study, you can request a medical certificate through InstantMed. A doctor will review your symptoms and issue a certificate if clinically appropriate — typically for 1 to 3 days depending on severity. You don't need to be dramatically unwell; feeling genuinely too rough to function is reason enough.
Yes. Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and issue valid medical certificates via telehealth. You fill in a detailed health questionnaire, a doctor reviews it, and if appropriate, your certificate is delivered digitally. No waiting room required.
You complete a structured health questionnaire covering your symptoms, duration, severity, and relevant medical history. The reviewing doctor uses this information — the same clinical reasoning they'd apply in a face-to-face consult — to determine whether a certificate, advice, or referral is appropriate.
A medical certificate covers the period stated on the document. If your symptoms worsen or don't improve as expected, you should see a GP in person or visit your nearest emergency department if it's urgent. Your certificate doesn't replace ongoing care — it's a point-in-time clinical assessment.
In some cases, yes. If a doctor reviewing your request determines that a common, non-restricted treatment is appropriate, they may issue a prescription as part of a consultation. Not all symptoms require or qualify for a prescription — the doctor will advise you on next steps.
Medical certificates are typically issued in under 30 minutes, available 24/7. Other requests are reviewed within 1–2 hours during operating hours (8am–10pm AEST, 7 days). You'll receive an email notification once your request has been reviewed.
If your symptoms suggest something that requires a physical examination, diagnostic tests, or specialist referral, the doctor will let you know and recommend appropriate next steps. Your safety is the priority — telehealth is a great option for many things, but it's not a replacement for hands-on assessment when that's what's needed.
No Medicare card is required for medical certificates. If you're requesting a prescription or consultation, a valid Medicare card is needed. Our service is private and does not attract a Medicare rebate, though any prescriptions issued can still attract PBS subsidies at the pharmacy.
A reflex that helps clear your airways. Can be dry or productive (with mucus), and acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting weeks).
A body temperature above 38°C (100.4°F). Usually a sign your body is fighting an infection. Common and usually not serious in adults.
Pain in any region of the head, ranging from sharp to dull, that may occur with other symptoms. One of the most common health complaints.
Excess mucus from the nose. Usually from colds, allergies, or irritants.
Our Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and provide advice, treatment, or medical certificates if needed.
Get assessed by a doctorThis information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health. Content on this page has been reviewed by AHPRA-registered Australian doctors but does not replace a personalised medical consultation.