Strep throat is a bacterial infection that’s most common in children, but it can affect anyone. This infection typically requires antibiotic treatment to get better, and symptoms will continue to get worse until they’re too painful to ignore. That being said, it’s always better to seek treatment early! Identifying the earliest warning signs of strep could save you a lot of time and pain when you get the treatment you need quicker.
For same-day strep throat diagnosis and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen. Our medical team is available seven days a week to treat your condition with no appointment necessary. Just walk-in!
Early Signs and Symptoms of Strep Throat
One of the most telling signs of strep throat is a sudden, intense sore throat that feels much worse than the usual irritation you might get from a cold. This pain can make swallowing very painful, often with a scratchy or raw feeling that is as uncomfortable as it sounds! Many people become dehydrated due to how painful it is to swallow when drinking with strep.
If you look at the back of your throat, you’ll probably find your tonsils are red and swollen. Sometimes, there are also white patches or streaks of pus on them. Since strep is a type of infection, it can cause a fever as your body works to fight off the infection. You may or may not experience a headache as your body's inflammatory response system responds to the infection.
Swollen and tender lymph nodes, especially in the neck, are another early sign of strep throat. These glands play a vital role in helping your body fight infections; when they become inflamed, it is usually your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. In the most severe cases of strep, some patients experience a rough, red rash known as scarlet fever.
When Should You Head to Urgent Care?
If you recognize these early signs of strep throat, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly. If left untreated, strep throat can lead to complications, such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation. Visiting an urgent care facility is a convenient option for diagnosis and treatment. A healthcare professional can perform a rapid strep test or throat culture to confirm the presence of the bacteria. If strep throat is diagnosed, antibiotics can be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery, minimizing the risk of complications.
Get Walk-In Strep Throat Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen in Aberdeen, NJ
Being aware of the early signs of strep throat is essential for prompt treatment. If you experience a severe sore throat, fever, and other associated symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. At AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen, we can provide the necessary evaluation and treatment to get you back on the road to recovery. Taking swift action can make all the difference in your healing process and help prevent more serious health issues down the line. No appointments are ever necessary for our services– we’re a walk-in facility! The center is conveniently located at 1140 State Route 34 in Aberdeen, NJ.
We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about strep throat treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (732) 583-5100.
