When Should You See an ENT for Urgent Sore Throat Care?
A sore throat is a common complaint, often linked to colds or seasonal allergies. But sometimes, throat pain is more than just a temporary irritation—it can signal a serious condition that requires urgent medical attention. Knowing when to see an ENT (ear, nose, and throat specialist) can protect your health and, in rare cases, even save your life.
At New York Sinusitis Treatment, Dr. Greg Levitin offers same-day urgent ENT care for sore throat concerns. As a board-certified otolaryngologist with decades of experience, Dr. Levitin provides expert evaluation and treatment to quickly identify the cause of your throat pain and deliver the care you need.
When a Sore Throat Becomes an Emergency
Not all sore throats are created equal. While many resolve on their own, certain symptoms require urgent attention from an ENT. These include:
- Severe throat pain that worsens rapidly
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- High fever or chills
- Muffled voice or sudden hoarseness
- Swelling of the throat or neck
- White patches, pus, or blood in the throat
- Severe fatigue or body aches
If you are experiencing any of these, it’s important to seek care from a specialist rather than waiting it out.
Common Conditions That Require ENT Evaluation
Dr. Levitin diagnoses and treats a wide range of throat conditions, including:
- Viral pharyngitis – Often caused by cold or flu viruses, this condition may include cough, nasal congestion, and body aches.
- Streptococcal tonsillitis – A bacterial infection marked by fever, swollen lymph nodes, and white patches on the tonsils. Prompt antibiotics are required.
- Peritonsillar abscess – A dangerous complication where pus forms near the tonsil, leading to severe pain, difficulty opening the mouth, and voice changes.
- Epiglottitis and supraglottitis – These rare but serious conditions involve swelling above the voice box and can block the airway. Immediate care is critical.
- Mononucleosis – A viral illness associated with profound fatigue, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes.
- Laryngitis – Inflammation of the vocal cords that can cause hoarseness, pain, and voice loss.
- Reflux-related irritation – Acid reflux can inflame the throat and vocal cords, often mistaken for infection.
Why See an ENT Instead of a Primary Care Provider?
Primary care physicians handle many routine sore throats, but an ENT brings specialized expertise in diagnosing complex or severe conditions. Dr. Levitin uses advanced tools such as flexible laryngoscopy to directly visualize the throat and airway, allowing for accurate and timely diagnosis.
This level of precision is especially important in urgent cases like abscesses, airway swelling, or persistent infections, where delayed treatment can lead to serious complications.
Dr. Greg Levitin: Trusted Expert in Throat Care
Dr. Greg Levitin is a board-certified otolaryngologist and recognized leader in ENT care. With years of experience treating patients in New York City, he is known for his compassionate approach and ability to manage even the most complex ENT conditions. Patients appreciate his accessibility—often being able to schedule same-day urgent care appointments when sore throats or other ENT issues can’t wait.
When to Call Right Away
If your sore throat is accompanied by severe pain, breathing difficulties, or a high fever, don’t delay. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition that requires immediate care from an ENT specialist.
At New York Sinusitis Treatment, we provide urgent evaluations and treatments to help patients in Manhattan and throughout NYC recover quickly and safely.
Schedule Urgent Sore Throat Care in NYC
Don’t ignore a sore throat that feels different or unusually severe. Getting prompt care from an experienced ENT can prevent complications and bring faster relief.
Contact New York Sinusitis Treatment today to schedule an urgent appointment with Dr. Greg Levitin. Same-day visits are often available for sore throats and other ENT emergencies.

