With a viral cold, sore throat is frequently one of the first symptoms and tends to be at its worst in the first two to three days. It usually settles within about a week as the rest of the cold improves.
Simple measures can ease the discomfort: warm fluids, staying hydrated, and over-the-counter pain relief or soothing lozenges used as directed on the label or as advised by a pharmacist.
See a doctor if the sore throat lasts longer than a week, is severe, or comes with high fever, swollen tender neck glands, white patches on the tonsils, or a rash, as these can suggest a bacterial cause such as strep throat. Seek urgent care if you have difficulty swallowing or breathing, drooling, or are unable to open your mouth fully.