LEARN THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STREP AND A SORE THROAT
Sore throats are common in both children and adults. Some are caused by allergies, others by dry air or by irritants in the air, such as pollution or cigarette smoke. Viral illnesses such as colds, flu, chickenpox, and other infections often lead to a sore throat as well. But a smaller percentage of sore throats are caused by a bacterial infection called strep throat, which can cause serious complications if not treated promptly. The best way to find out if your sore throat is strep throat is to consult with a physician at a walk-in clinic in Gainesville, GA. Here are some ways to tell if your sore throat may actually be strep throat.
Viral vs. Bacterial Infections
Two different types of infections cause sore throat symptoms. Most sore throats are caused by a viral infection. Physicians can treat the symptoms, but viral sore throat infections must run their course. Antibiotics won’t clear them up. However, with a bacterial infection like strep throat, the physician will likely perform a lab test to confirm a diagnosis, then prescribe antibiotics that kill specific bacteria and destroy their ability to divide and reproduce.
Symptoms: Sore Throat
When an adult has a sore throat, also called pharyngitis, it is less likely to be strep throat and is more likely due to a common cold. A sore throat caused by a virus is generally accompanied by a cough, runny nose, body aches, and sneezing. Your eyes may be red and watery, or you may develop conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the tissue that covers the whites of the eyes. This is commonly known as pink eye. The sore throat is usually mild at first, then gradually develops over several days. Within five to seven days, your throat should no longer be sore.
Symptoms: Strep Throat
If you have strep throat, you’ll experience a sore throat that appears suddenly, but you won’t have a cough, runny nose, or irritated, red eyes. The pain is towards the back of the throat and often starts with a fever and a headache. Visible signs of a strep infection include swollen lymph nodes and tiny red spots in the back of the roof of the mouth. The tonsils are red and swollen with white pus patches or streaks. If you have been exposed to a person with strep throat and begin to develop a fever, a headache, or a sore throat, visit an urgent care clinic to determine if you’ve been infected.
Diagnosis Is Important
To avoid complications, it is crucial to seek a professional diagnosis if you suspect strep throat. The sooner you receive a diagnosis and receive antibiotics, the sooner you’ll feel better. If you believe you may have strep, visit Lanier Urgent Care, your nearest walk-in clinic in Gainesville, GA, for treatment. To view current wait times for urgent care services, visit our website.
