Recurring Sore Throat & Amoxicillin - Seeking Advice

Question
Charles,

First, happy holidays.  My question(s) is this.. I developed a very sore throat and had recently seen my family physician to determine if it was Strep (which I'm prone to getting).  It came back negative so I didn't begin the prescription as the sore throat went away.  However, about 6 days ago it started up again so I went and had the prescription filled (Amoxicillin) and figured that would knock it out.  Some 5 days later I still had a low grade fever and my throat felt no better which is very odd for me where Strep is concerned.  I called my Dr and she called in Zithromax which I started two days ago.. she said usually the other takes care of Strep and that maybe I have a viral infection that can't be touched by antibiotics or it might be a sinus infection (even though I don't have any nasal discharge or head pain.  Here is where my question to you fits in... In addition to the sore throat which I still have I also now have irritation around my gums at various places... and a very mild cough.  The irritation on my gums is at various locations but has gotten worse over the past few days and is similar to a mouth sore or redness and some pain.  I have heard that sinus infections can affect the gums but I'm at a loss and I'm planning to see my physician on Monday but was curious to see what you might offer as a thought.

Thanks again and have a nice holiday!

Answer
Hi Harrison,
I believe that you have a viral infection. Unfortunately, antibiotics are of no use. The soreness in your mouth may very well be a viral stomatitis (a fancy word for mouth sores caused by a virus) or even a yeast infection from antibiotic use. I would keep that appointment because there are treatments for either stomatitis or oral yeast.