Last Updated on December 2, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir

Why do I have red sores in back of throat? Learn the causes, including viral infections, Strep, and trauma from coughing. Seeing red spots on the back of your throat can worry you. But knowing why they appear can help you get the right treatment. These spots might show you have a viral or bacterial throat infection.

At Liv Hospital, we have experts in throat and respiratory health. We use the latest tests and treatments to find out what’s wrong. Our team works hard to give you the best care, no matter the cause.

Key Takeaways

• Red spots on the throat can indicate various infections or medical conditions.
• Viral and bacterial infections are common causes of these symptoms.
• Proper medical evaluation is key for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
• Liv Hospital offers specialized care for throat and respiratory conditions.
• Advanced diagnostic techniques ensure precise identification of the underlying cause.

Understanding Throat Anatomy and Red Spots

The throat is key for food and air. Sometimes, it shows red spots that need attention. Knowing the throat’s structure helps spot health problems.

Normal Throat Appearance vs. Abnormal Changes

A healthy throat looks smooth and pink. The tonsils, on either side, match the surrounding color and are not swollen. But, redness, swelling, or red spots can mean trouble.

Red spots on tonsils or the throat’s back can be small dots or patches. They might come with a sore throat, trouble swallowing, or fever. Spotting these signs is the first step to getting help.

How to Properly Examine Your Throat

Checking your throat can reveal a lot about your health. You’ll need a mirror and a light. Stand in front of the mirror and light up your throat. Look for red spots, swelling, or white patches.

If you see lasting or serious symptoms, see a doctor. They can do a detailed check and figure out what’s wrong.

Common Causes of Red Sores in Back of Throat

Seeing red sores in the back of our throat makes us curious about the cause. These red spots or patches on the tonsils or throat can signal infections. Knowing the causes helps us figure out what to do next.

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections often lead to red sores in the throat. A well-known example is strep throat, caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. It shows up as red, swollen tonsils with white patches, along with fever and swollen lymph nodes.

Other bacterial infections can also cause throat issues, though they’re less common. Seeing a doctor is key to get the right treatment, as these infections need antibiotics.

Viral Infections

Viral infections are another big reason for red throat sores. Viruses like those causing the common cold or flu can make the throat inflamed and red. Hand, foot, and mouth disease can also cause red sores on the tonsils and throat.

Cause	Characteristics	Common Symptoms
Bacterial Infections (e.g., Strep Throat)	Red, swollen tonsils; sometimes white patches	Fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat
Viral Infections (e.g., Common Cold, Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease)	Red spots or sores on tonsils and throat	Sore throat, fever, general malaise, sometimes rash

Strep Throat: Symptoms and Characteristics

Strep throat is a serious condition caused by bacteria. It starts suddenly and can be very uncomfortable. If not treated, it can lead to serious problems.

Classic Presentation

The main signs of strep throat include red spots on the back of the throat and swollen tonsils. People often have a severe sore throat that hurts when they swallow.

Fever is another key sign, with temperatures over 101°F (38.3°C). Swollen lymph nodes in the neck also show the body is fighting the infection.

Strep Throat in Different Age Groups

Strep throat can happen to anyone, but it shows differently in kids and adults. Kids might also feel nauseous, vomit, and have stomach pain, along with the usual symptoms.

Adults usually just have the classic symptoms without stomach problems. Knowing these differences helps doctors diagnose and treat it right.

Complications of Untreated Infections

Not treating strep throat can cause serious problems. One big risk is rheumatic fever, which can harm the heart permanently.

Other possible issues include kidney inflammation and ear infections. Antibiotics can help prevent these problems. So, it’s important to see a doctor if symptoms don’t get better or get worse.

Viral Throat Conditions

Viral throat conditions can show up in different ways, like red marks in the back of the throat. They often come with symptoms like fever, sore throat, and feeling unwell. Knowing what causes these infections is key to getting the right treatment.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) mainly hits kids but can affect adults too. It’s marked by red spots and blisters on hands, feet, and inside the mouth, including the throat. The virus is very contagious and spreads through touching an infected person’s mucus, saliva, or feces.

Symptoms of HFMD include:

• Mouth sores
• Red spots or blisters on the hands and feet
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Reduced appetite

Herpangina

Herpangina is a viral infection that causes small, painful blisters or ulcers at the back of the mouth and throat. It’s common in kids and caused by the Coxsackie virus or Echovirus. Symptoms start suddenly with fever, sore throat, and the appearance of lesions.

Key features of Herpangina include:

1. High fever
2. Painful blisters or ulcers in the throat
3. Sore throat
4. Loss of appetite

Common Cold and Influenza Effects on Throat

The common cold and influenza can make the throat sore and red. While the common cold has milder symptoms, the flu can be more serious. It can cause high fever, body aches, and extreme tiredness.

Effects on the throat may include:

• Redness and swelling
• Soreness or pain
• Dryness or irritation

It’s important to tell the difference between viral infections and bacterial ones like strep throat. The treatments are very different.

Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis

Pharyngitis and tonsillitis are common throat issues. They cause discomfort and red spots at the back of the throat. These problems can come from bacterial or viral infections, leading to swelling and pain when swallowing.

Acute vs. Chronic Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is when the throat area behind the mouth and nose gets inflamed. Acute pharyngitis is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. It shows symptoms like a sore throat, redness, and swelling.

Chronic pharyngitis is a long-term issue. It can be caused by things like acid reflux or allergies.

Knowing if it’s acute or chronic is key for treatment. Acute cases might get better on their own or with treatment. But chronic cases need to address the root cause to feel better.

Bacterial Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is when the tonsils, which are lymphoid organs, get inflamed. Bacterial tonsillitis is often caused by streptococcal bacteria. It shows symptoms like a very sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

To diagnose it, a throat swab is done to find the bacteria. Antibiotics are then given to kill the infection and prevent further problems. It’s important to finish all the antibiotics to make sure the infection is gone.

Viral Tonsillitis

Viral tonsillitis is caused by viruses like the common cold or flu. Symptoms are similar to bacterial tonsillitis, but can also include cough and runny nose. Viral tonsillitis doesn’t get better with antibiotics, so treatment focuses on easing symptoms.

Helping symptoms of viral tonsillitis can include staying hydrated, resting, and using over-the-counter pain relievers.

Less Common Causes of Red Throat Spots

Many common causes of red throat spots are well-known. But, there are also less common conditions that can cause this symptom. Knowing about these can help in diagnosing and treating the condition effectively.

Mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr Virus)

Mononucleosis, or mono, is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It leads to fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. Red spots on the throat can be a symptom of mono, mainly during the acute phase.

Symptoms to watch for: Severe fatigue, sore throat, fever, and swollen tonsils. Mononucleosis can also cause complications like an enlarged spleen or hepatitis.

Oral Thrush (Candidiasis) and Allergic Reactions

Oral thrush is a fungal infection caused by Candida species. It shows up as white patches or red spots in the mouth and throat. Allergic reactions can also cause red spots in the throat, often with itching or swelling.

• Oral thrush is more common in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or using inhaled corticosteroids.
• Allergic reactions can be triggered by various factors, including food, medications, or environmental allergens.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This can irritate the throat and cause red spots. GERD can lead to discomfort and inflammation in the throat area.

Management tips: Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and elevating the head of the bed can help manage GERD symptoms. In some cases, medication may be necessary to reduce acid production.

Understanding these less common causes of red throat spots can help individuals seek appropriate medical care and treatment. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Diagnostic Approaches for Throat Conditions

Diagnosing throat conditions involves several steps. These include physical exams, lab tests, and sometimes imaging studies. If you notice red spots on your throat’s back, a detailed check is needed to find the cause.

Physical Examination Techniques

A detailed physical exam looks at your throat. We check for redness, swelling, or pus on your tonsils. We also check your neck for swollen lymph nodes, which can mean infection.

Laboratory Testing

Labs are key to finding out what’s causing your throat symptoms. Tests include:

• Throat Swab: To find bacterial infections like strep throat.
• Blood Tests: To spot viral infections or other issues.

When Imaging Studies Are Needed

Sometimes, imaging studies are needed to see how serious the condition is or to rule out other problems. These can include:

• X-rays: To look at your throat and nearby areas.
• CT Scans: For a detailed look, if there’s a chance of complications.

Diagnostic Method	Purpose	Common Uses
Physical Examination	Initial assessment of throat condition	Inspecting for redness, swelling, or pus
Laboratory Testing (Throat Swab)	Identify bacterial or viral infections	Diagnosing strep throat, viral infections
Imaging Studies (X-rays, CT Scans)	Assess extent of condition or rule out other causes	Evaluating throat and surrounding structures, assessing complications

Getting an accurate diagnosis is vital for treating throat issues well. By using physical exams, lab tests, and imaging studies when needed, we can figure out what’s causing the red spots. Then, we can suggest the right treatment.

Treatment Options and Management

Treating red spots on the throat depends on finding the cause. Once the cause is known, the right treatment can start. This helps to ease symptoms and fix the problem.

Antibiotics: When They’re Needed and When They’re Not

Antibiotics work well against bacterial infections, like strep throat. But, they don’t help with viral infections. Doctors say using antibiotics wisely is key to avoid resistance.

For viral infections, like the common cold or flu, treatments aim to ease symptoms. Antibiotics won’t help and could even harm.

Managing Pain and Discomfort

Managing pain is important when treating throat issues. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. Throat lozenges or warm salt water gargles are also good home remedies.

Doctors might suggest special medications or sprays for pain. It’s important to follow their advice and not take too much.

Home Remedies and Supportive Care

Supportive care is key in recovering from throat infections. Drinking lots of water, resting, and eating well help the body heal faster. Using a humidifier can also help soothe a sore throat.

For those with frequent throat problems, avoiding triggers is helpful. This might mean staying away from smoke or managing GERD.

Understanding the cause of red spots on the throat and using the right treatment helps manage symptoms. It also helps prevent future problems.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Red spots on the back of your throat can be scary. It’s key to know when you need to see a doctor right away. Many times, these spots are just minor infections that get better by themselves. But, some symptoms mean you should see a doctor fast.

Red Flag Symptoms Requiring Immediate Care

If you notice any of these signs, get medical help right away:

• Severe sore throat that makes it hard to swallow or breathe
• High fever (over 101.5°F or 38.6°C) that lasts or comes with other bad symptoms
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Swollen tonsils or lymph nodes that are really big
• Rash or other skin problems with your throat symptoms

Special Considerations for Children

Children’s immune systems are not as strong, making them more likely to get throat infections. Parents should watch for signs like:

• Refusal to drink or signs of dehydration
• Unusual drooling or trouble swallowing
• High-pitched or noisy breathing
• Fever above 102°F (39°C) in babies under 3 months

Children with these symptoms need to see a doctor fast to avoid serious problems.

What to Expect at Your Doctor’s Visit

At your doctor’s office, they will check you thoroughly. This includes:

• A physical check of your throat and neck
• Looking over your health history
• Maybe a throat swab for culture or rapid strep test

Be ready to talk about your symptoms. Tell your doctor when they started and what makes them better or worse.

Follow-up Care Guidelines

After your first visit, follow these steps:

• Stick to the treatment your doctor gave you, like antibiotics or other care
• Watch your symptoms and tell your doctor if they get worse or new ones appear
• Follow up as your doctor tells you to make sure the infection is gone

Knowing when to get medical help and what to expect at your doctor’s visit helps you get the right care for red spots on your throat.

Conclusion

Red spots on the back of your throat can be worrying. They often mean you have an infection or another issue. We’ve looked at why these spots happen, like infections, and why getting a proper diagnosis and treatment is key.

Things like strep throat, hand, foot, and mouth disease, and herpangina can cause these spots. Knowing what these conditions are and when to see a doctor is important. If you see red spots on your throat, seeing a healthcare professional is a must.

Understanding why you have red spots and getting medical help when needed is important. This way, you can get the right treatment and avoid bigger problems. We urge you to take care of your health and get professional advice if you notice red spots in your throat.

FAQ

References

1. World Health Organization. (n.d.). Influenza (Seasonal). Retrieved from [https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/influenza-(seasonal