ENT · Sore Throat · TonsillitisSore Throat in Lagos?
Sore Throat in Lagos?
Not Every Sore Throat Needs Antibiotics.
Sore throat is one of the most common reasons for clinic visits in Lagos, and one of the most over-treated with antibiotics. 70% of sore throats are viral and do not need antibiotics. The 30% that are bacterial (streptococcal) do, and the distinction matters. At Mascot Healthcare, Akoka, we assess correctly. See prices.
Clinical throat assessmentAntibiotics only when indicatedSame-day consultationWalk-in · Akoka, Lagos
Viral vs bacterial
Is Your Sore Throat Viral or Bacterial?
| Feature | Viral sore throat | Bacterial (Strep) tonsillitis |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Gradual | Sudden |
| Fever | Low-grade or absent | High (>38.5°C) |
| Cough | Usually present | Usually absent |
| Tonsil appearance | Red, no pus | Pus on tonsils (exudate) |
| Cervical nodes | Mild | Tender, enlarged |
| Runny nose | Common | Uncommon |
| Antibiotics needed? | No, rest and analgesia | Yes, penicillin or amoxicillin |
The Centor/McIsaac criteria: Our doctors use clinical scoring (fever + tonsillar exudate + tender cervical lymph nodes + no cough) to guide antibiotic decisions, reducing unnecessary prescriptions while ensuring bacterial infections are treated.
Questions
Sore throat FAQs
How long should a sore throat last before seeing a doctor?
A viral sore throat typically resolves within 5–7 days without treatment. Seek assessment if: symptoms are severe; you have a very high fever; you cannot swallow fluids; you have white patches on the tonsils; symptoms are worsening after 3–4 days; or you have a history of rheumatic fever (streptococcal infection can trigger recurrence).
Can a sore throat damage my heart?
Untreated Group A streptococcal tonsillitis can cause acute rheumatic fever, which can damage heart valves. This is significantly more common in Nigeria than in Western countries due to higher strep prevalence and limited access to diagnosis. This is why correct assessment and penicillin treatment (when indicated) matters, not just symptom management.
My child keeps getting tonsillitis. When should tonsils be removed?
Tonsillectomy is considered for recurrent tonsillitis: typically defined as 7 episodes in one year, 5 per year for two years, or 3 per year for three years. Our doctors can assess, document, and provide a referral letter for ENT evaluation when criteria are met.
Our Approach at Mascot Healthcare
Every patient who walks into Mascot Healthcare, Akoka receives a proper clinical assessment, not a guess and a prescription. We use evidence-based guidelines, up-to-date knowledge of Lagos-specific disease patterns, and appropriate investigations to ensure correct diagnosis and targeted treatment.
- Full clinical history and examination
- Appropriate investigations: blood tests, urine tests, swabs, or scans as indicated
- Evidence-based treatment prescribed same visit
- Follow-up plan and red flag advice
- Specialist referral with written summary when needed
Get Your Sore Throat Assessed Properly.
By appointment at Mascot Healthcare, Akoka. See prices.
Related pages
Last updated 16 October 2026.