Common Infections: GP Reviewed Information
Infections are one of the most frequent reasons adults speak to a GP. Symptoms such as sore throat, fever, sinus pressure, urinary discomfort and prolonged cough often need clear assessment and advice. This section of the AccessGP Knowledge Base summarises common infections seen in primary care, what symptoms may indicate and when tests or treatment may be appropriate.
What this infections section covers
This section includes GP reviewed summaries of everyday infectious symptoms. Articles describe what infections commonly look like, which features may require assessment and how a GP usually approaches diagnosis. Topics include:
- sore throat and tonsillitis
- sinus infections
- urinary tract infections (UTI)
- chesty or lingering cough
- ear infections
- skin infections
- fever and flu like illness
- gastrointestinal infections
- sexually transmitted infections
These articles provide general health information and should not replace medical advice.
Common reasons adults seek GP advice for infections
People often contact a GP when symptoms persist or when they are unsure whether antibiotics or further assessment are needed. Common reasons include:
- sore throat lasting several days
- fever that is not settling
- blocked nose or sinus pressure
- deep or persistent cough
- burning or stinging when passing urine
- ear pain or reduced hearing
- skin redness, swelling or heat
- concern about returning symptoms or frequent infections
A private GP reviews symptoms, considers your medical history and discusses appropriate next steps.
Types of infections explained in this section
Below is an overview of the main infection types included in this hub.
Sore throat and tonsillitis
Sore throats can be viral or bacterial. Symptoms such as high fever, swollen glands or difficulty swallowing may suggest tonsillitis. A GP reviews symptom patterns, duration and severity to decide whether antibiotics or supportive care are appropriate.
Sinus infections
Sinus pressure, facial pain, blocked nose and thick nasal discharge may indicate sinusitis. Symptoms are often viral but can occasionally require treatment. A GP assesses duration and severity to guide management.
Urinary tract infections (UTI)
UTIs commonly cause stinging when passing urine, urgency or suprapubic discomfort. A GP may arrange urine testing where needed and discuss treatment options. Recurrent UTIs may require further assessment.
Persistent or chesty cough
Coughs can follow viral infections or be linked to post nasal drip, asthma or irritation. A GP explores how long the cough has lasted and associated symptoms. Some coughs may need an inhaler or further testing.
Ear infections
Ear pain, muffled hearing or discharge may relate to infection or inflammation of the ear canal or middle ear. GP assessment helps determine whether treatment is required.
Skin infections
Redness, warmth, swelling or tenderness of the skin can indicate local infection. A GP considers whether antibiotics, topical treatment or wound care is appropriate.
Fever and flu like illnesses
Fever is common with viral infections. A GP assesses duration, severity and associated symptoms to help identify the most likely cause.
Gastrointestinal infections
Viral or bacterial infections can induce diarrhoea, fever and a number of symptoms explored further in this article.
Sexually transmitted infections
Common sexually transmitted infections, how they can present (if they do show any symptoms at all) and how a GP/supporting teams assess duration, severity to help identify the most likely cause and find the correct treatment.
How a GP assesses infections in practice
GPs look at symptom duration, severity, medical history, fever patterns and examination findings. They consider whether symptoms are likely viral or bacterial and whether tests such as urine dipsticks or throat swabs are needed. Treatment decisions are based on clinical features rather than symptoms alone.
Linking infections to wider health checks
Recurrent infections can sometimes relate to factors such as allergies, lifestyle habits, smoking, stress or underlying medical conditions. A GP may explore broader health factors and arrange blood tests where relevant, such as full blood count, iron levels or vitamin D.
When to book a GP appointment about infections
Speak to a GP if:
- symptoms are not improving after several days
- you have a high fever or feel generally unwell
- you have urinary symptoms or recurring UTIs
- you have ear pain, sinus pressure or persistent cough
- a skin area is red, swollen or worsening
- you experience repeated infections across the year
- you are unsure whether antibiotics are appropriate
A private GP can help clarify what symptoms mean and guide safe, effective treatment.
If you would like to discuss general health, acute or recurrent infections or plan a private health check, you can book an online GP appointment with AccessGP.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 7 December 2025