Sore throat-Viral or bacterial? Go to GP or not?

[JustAfloat]

Can you tell visually if your sore throat is viral or bacterial?

I've had a sore throat for over a week now and no hot drinks, paracetamol etc are helping it.

The back of my throat is red and very veiny (not like that usually) and I have reddy/orange spots at the back of my throat.

I also have a white coating on my tongue which isn't normally there.

Don't want to waste an appointment if its just a virus .

TIA

always go to the doctor if you are worried.

But it does sound to me like just a nasty virus, obviously can't tell over the Internet.

Try googling cobblestonning of posterior pharynx. Might answer some questions.

Cobblestoning even!

Sorry for the late reply Pursuit.

Went to GP today and he said it looks swollen and red but doesn't look bacterial (no pus or blood!).

He said it's a nasty virus and to go back in a weekish if I'm not better.

I'm glad he doesn't think it's serious, but I suppose its so frustrating when you obviously feel like crap and there is basically bugger all you can do but wait it out.
Hope you feel better soon!