Sore Throat Treatment
in NYC
If you’re struggling with a sore throat in NYC, you’re not alone. Every year, millions of adults experience sore throats, from
mild irritation to painful infections that make swallowing difficult. At Manhattan Medical Arts, we proudly serve Manhattan, Forest Hills, and all of New York City with walk-in visits, same-day appointments, and telemedicine options to help you get relief fast.
Our lead physician, Dr. Syra Hanif, offers compassionate, thorough evaluations—whether your sore throat is a viral infection,
strep throat, tonsillitis, allergies, or another underlying cause.
Understanding Sore Throat
(Pharyngitis)
A sore throat (or pharyngitis) is pain, scratchiness, or irritation in your throat, often worse when swallowing. Most sore throats are caused by viral infections like the common cold or flu, but bacterial infections—especially strep throat—are also common.
The CDC reports that 15–30% of sore throats in adults are due to Group A Streptococcus bacteria—which requires antibiotic treatment to prevent complications.
At Manhattan Medical Arts, our team is trained to evaluate, test, and treat sore throat causes on-site, with rapid strep tests, throat cultures, chest X-rays if needed, and blood work available.
Causes of Sore Throat
A sore throat can have many triggers. Our providers evaluate all potential causes, including:
Viral Infections
Common Cold, Flu, COVID-19, Mononucleosis (EBV)
Bacterial Infections
Strep Throat, Tonsillitis
Allergies
Pollen, Dust,
Pet Dander
Environmental Factors
Dry Air, Smoke,
Pollution
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Acid Reflux Irritating
the Throat
Vocal Strain
Yelling, Singing, Prolonged Speaking
For patients asking “What causes sore throat?” or “Can allergies cause sore throat?”—these are some of the most
common culprits.
Symptoms of Sore Throat
Your sore throat may feel mild or severe. Common
symptoms include:
For those wondering “Why does my throat hurt so bad?” or “Why does the back of my throat hurt when I swallow?”, infections are a leading cause—but GERD, allergies, or irritants can also be responsible.
If you notice your throat hurts when you touch it on the outside or feels like it’s closing but you can breathe fine, these symptoms can indicate swelling or irritation requiring professional evaluation.
When to See
a Doctor
Most sore throats improve in a few days with fluids, rest, and over-the-counter meds. But you should see a doctor if:
- Sore throat lasts more than a week
- Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
- Severe pain or difficulty swallowing
- White patches, pus, or red spots on the throat
- Swollen lymph nodes or neck lumps
- Ear pain or joint pain
- Blood in saliva or phlegm
- Hoarseness lasting more than 2 weeks
- Trouble breathing
Our clinic offers same-day evaluations for walk-ins and telemedicine consults so you can quickly access professional care.
Strep Throat Testing and Diagnosis in NYC
Strep throat is a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics. Left untreated, it can lead to rheumatic fever, kidney damage, sinus infections, pneumonia, and other complications.
At Manhattan Medical Arts, we provide:
- Rapid strep testing with results in minutes
- Throat cultures for confirmation
- Blood work if needed for infections like mononucleosis
- Chest X-rays for cough or suspected pneumonia
According to CDC data, about 11 million outpatient visits for pharyngitis occur each year in the U.S., with 30% of children and 15% of adults testing positive for strep throat.
We take testing seriously so you get the right treatment—fast.
Sore Throat
Treatment Options
Your treatment plan depends on the cause:
Strep Throat
(Bacterial)
Prescription antibiotics to clear infection and prevent complications.
Viral Infections (Cold, Flu, COVID-19)
Supportive care—fluids, rest, OTC pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen), salt water gargles, lozenges. Antibiotics won’t help.
Allergies
Antihistamines, nasal
sprays, allergen avoidance strategies.
GERD
(Acid Reflux)
Lifestyle changes,
antacids, proton-pump inhibitors.
Tonsillitis or Recurrent Infections
Referral to tonsils specialist or ENT if surgery is considered.
Irritants or
Strain
Voice rest, hydration, avoiding smoke and pollutants.
We tailor each plan to your personal health, symptoms, and lifestyle.
Our Approach
to Care
At Manhattan Medical Arts, we combine clinical expertise with a compassionate approach. Dr. Syra Hanif and
our team offer:
Walk-In Visits For
Urgent Symptoms
Telemedicine for
NYC residents needing remote care
On-site Testing: Rapid strep, cultures, X-rays, blood work
Same-day appointments to keep you out of the ER
Insurance-accepted and self-pay options
“Our goal is to listen carefully, evaluate thoroughly, and create a clear, personalized plan so you can feel
better quickly.”
– Dr. Syra Hanif
Prevention Tips for
Sore Throat
Many sore throats can be avoided with simple precautions:
- Wash your hands often (especially before eating).
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
- Don’t share utensils, drinks, or toothbrushes.
- Use humidifiers during dry winter months.
- Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
- Control allergies with appropriate medications.
- Treat GERD to reduce throat irritation.
Vaccination also matters. The CDC recommends annual flu shots, and COVID-19 vaccination can reduce risk of respiratory infections that cause sore throats.
Call to Action
Ready to feel better? Don’t wait.
Your NYC sore throat specialists at Manhattan Medical Arts are here to help
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes sore throat?
Viruses, bacteria (like strep), allergies, irritants (smoke, pollution), GERD, and vocal strain are common causes.
What does a sore throat look like?
Red, swollen throat, possibly with white patches or pus (especially in strep throat).
Why does my throat hurt so bad?
Severe infections, strep throat, or significant irritation can cause intense pain.
Why does the back of my throat hurt when I swallow?
This is typical of infections, tonsillitis, or even acid reflux.
My throat hurts when I touch it on the outside – why?
This may mean swollen lymph nodes or deeper tissue inflammation.
My throat feels like it’s closing but I can breathe fine – should I worry?
This can happen with allergies, mild swelling, or acid reflux, but if breathing becomes difficult, seek immediate care.
Can allergies cause sore throat?
Yes, postnasal drip and irritation from allergens are common causes.
Is sore throat a symptom of COVID-19?
It can be. COVID-19 often causes sore throat along with cough, fever, and fatigue.
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