I've had congestion and sore throat for a few months now. First doc thought it was strep throat... went on antibiotics and felt a little better after 3 days... labs came back... it wasn't strep. Probably a viral sinus infection or irritation and draining from allergies (I didn't think I had any... but maybe I do.) Anyway... just been taking a sudafed everyday for the last few weeks and hoping my immune system will finally beat this thing. It's an irritant, but it hasn't stopped me from doing things except for the first few days where it really beat me down. I'm not special. I've talked with many people that seem to have something similar that has been hanging around for several weeks to a few months. Some have developed bronchitis and pneumonia. Mine hasn't spread any further than my throat... I'm happy for that.... could be worse.