Sore throats follow a very standard protocol for me. They always have. For the past 21 years, they've proceeded as follows:
 
First day: First signs that something is wrong: Scratchy throat, hot throat, etc. Within 6 hours of first signs will have throat in incredible pain. Can't swallow or breathe without cringing. 
 
Second day: Continuation of the first day. Usually worsening of symptoms. Second night typically the hardest to get sleep through.
 
Third day: Slight abatement in sore throat, increase in nasal congestion. Becomes very difficult to breathe through the nose, but throat at least is tolerable. The worst part is over. Sleep actually possible on the third night (but difficult).
 
Fourth day: No more throat issues, but total nasal stoppage. Have to blow nose constantly. Sleep on fourth night not that hard.
 
Fifth day: Nose clears up, but phlegm starts to crowd the throat. Have to spend whole fifth day hacking up phlegm (but at least throat doesn't really HURT)
 
Sixth day: Usually okay by sixth day. 
 
And of course, I'm taking several thousand mgs of Vitamin C and Zinc and drinking tons of orange juice every one of these days, causing horrible diarrhea. I've found this is the fastest way to get over the horror.
 
Also, first blog EVER. How's that for a high note?