When to see a doctor for a sore throat? A sore throat can be an uncomfortable and painful experience for kids, so it’s important to know when to seek medical attention. If your child has a sore throat that lasts for more than a few days, or is accompanied by fever, difficulty swallowing, swollen glands in the neck, or other worrisome symptoms like coughing up blood or having difficulty breathing, it’s time to see a doctor. It’s also important to take your child to the doctor if their sore throat is caused by an injury or infection. In these cases, a doctor can provide the treatment needed to help your child feel better.