During the fall and winter, many illnesses begin to spread rapidly in our communities. Two common conditions that tend to affect many individuals are strep throat and the flu. While both can leave you feeling under the weather for days, understanding their differences can help you seek the right treatment and recover faster. In this blog, we’ll explore the different causes, symptoms, and treatments for strep and the flu.
For same-day general illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Aurora Havana. Our board-certified medical team can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose the underlying cause, and plan treatment accordingly. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance by pre-registering online.
Causes and Symptoms of Strep Throat
Strep throat is caused by the Streptococcus bacteria and is characterized by a sore, scratchy throat that is often accompanied by painful swallowing. One of the telltale signs of strep throat is the sudden onset of symptoms. It’s important to note that a cough, runny nose, and congestion are not typical symptoms of strep throat.
The most common strep throat symptoms include:
- Sore, scratchy throat
- Fever higher than 101°F
- Red and swollen tonsils
- Tiny red spots on roof of mouth
- White or yellow patches at the back of throat
Causes and Symptoms of the Flu
Influenza, or the flu, is a viral infection caused by the influenza virus. Its symptoms can be like strep throat, but there are some key differences. The flu can also come on suddenly, however it causes respiratory symptoms like congestion. Symptoms like nausea, vommitting, and diarrhea may also occur– especially in children.
The most common flu symptoms include:
- High fever
- Body aches
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Runny/stuffy nose
Diagnosing and Treating Strep and Flu
To best understand which illness you have, it’s important to get a professional diagnosis from a medical provider. Strep throat is generally detected through a rapid strep test, which involves swabbing the back of the throat and testing for the presence of Streptococcus bacteria. The flu is diagnosed based on symptoms and can be confirmed through additional testing.
Treatment approaches for strep throat and the flu differ. Strep is typically treated with a course of antibiotics to eliminate bacterial infection. On the other hand, the flu is caused by a virus which means antibiotics are not effective. Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms are often recommended.
Get Strep and Flu Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Aurora Havana
While many cases of strep throat and influenza can be managed at home, it’s important to get a diagnosis to better understand what treatment regimen to follow. During cold and flu season, distinguishing between different illnesses is essential. While the symptoms can overlap, the healthcare professionals at AFC Urgent Care Denver Aurora Havana are here to help. Our providers can offer an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most suitable treatment plan to help you recover quickly and avoid complications.
The clinic is open seven days a week and operates on a walk-in basis– just stop by today! If you have any additional questions about strep and flu, please call us directly at (303) 343-6000.
