[31F] Experiencing sore throat, swollen glands, and respiratory symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, the following conditions could be possible:

• Common Cold: This is a viral infection that primarily affects the nose and throat. Symptoms typically include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, congestion, slight body aches or a mild headache, sneezing, and low-grade fever. However, you've mentioned that you don't have a fever.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms.

• Influenza (Flu): This is a more severe viral infection that can cause symptoms similar to the common cold, but also includes high fever, severe body aches, headaches, and fatigue. However, you've mentioned that you don't have a fever or severe body aches.

  • Treatment may include antiviral medications if diagnosed early, as well as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms.

• Strep Throat: This is a bacterial infection that can cause a severe sore throat, pain when swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. However, you've mentioned that you don't have a fever.

  • Treatment usually involves antibiotics to clear the infection.

• Mononucleosis: This is a viral illness often characterized by fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and sometimes body aches and chills. However, it's less likely given your age and the absence of severe fatigue.

  • Treatment involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms.

What you can do

While you're waiting to see a doctor, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

1. Rest and hydrate: Make sure you're getting plenty of sleep and drinking lots of fluids.
2. Over-the-counter remedies: Over-the-counter cold remedies can help with symptoms such as a runny nose, congestion, and body aches.
3. Sore throat relief: Try gargling with warm salt water or using a throat spray to help soothe your sore throat.
4. Avoid spreading the illness: If you have a viral or bacterial illness, it's important to avoid close contact with others until you're no longer contagious.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• High fever (over 100.4°F)
• Severe headache or neck stiffness
• Symptoms that worsen or do not improve after a week

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.