Viral infections frequently cause sore throats. These cases will not benefit from antibiotics. Acupuncture may alleviate the pain, although your body can typically resolve such an infection within about a week on its own. Some cases are caused by bacteria, and these can have more serious consequences. Get checked by your doctor if your sore throat comes on fast with a fever or pain in the front of your neck. Also see your doctor for problems with swallowing or breathing, or if the sore throat persists longer than a week.