I cannot even remember the last time I had a sore throat - so I dont' get them often. Don't get colds very often either (maybe once a year or less).

It started Thursday night - a kind of "tickle" in my throat/upper chest. I kept clearing throat & caughing to relieve it.

Starting Friday, bad sore throat on one side. By Saturday, severe sore throat all over, and continues today.

Throat looks quite red; possibly a couple of little white bumps - almost look like zits - on back of throat, on one side.

No fever, but I'm very tired. Super painful to even swallow water.

I don't have my tonsils, had them removed at age 5. I am now 40.

Does this sound like strep, or maybe just bad cold ?? I've never had strep in my life.

Thanks for any help.....

When I had white stuff on my tongue, and really bad sore throat, the doctor wanted me to come in for a strep test. After looking, she decided it wasn't strep, and there was no need to run a test. But I'd rather be save than sorry, so I think you should at least give your doc a call and ask what they think. Hope you feel better soon! Any sore throat that lasts more a few days is always worth getting checked, I think--especially if it is severe.