Hi, I had the exact same thing last weekend. Saturday night my throat was a little scratchy..not sore though. On sunday, I couldn't talk at all.I mean I had no voice. By monday, I started not feeling great. I know exactly what you mean by the feeling that someone hit you in the throat. That's exactly how I felt...right on the adam's apple although I don't know if women have an adam's apple. I also felt it on both sides of my throat. Later on that day I also had a headache. anyway.....I went to the doctor and had a strep test. I did not have strep...just a virus. It lasted 4 days! I actually was off work for 3 days....I have never had 3 sick days!!!! Anyway, a week later I'm feeling better but my throat still hurts a bit when I talk a lot or sing. So, I hope you feel better.