Is getting strep without tonsils possible? The short answer is yes. Strep throat is caused by a particular strain of bacteria, group A Streptococcus. These bacteria can live in the nose and mouth.
The bacteria are spread through an infected person’s saliva or mucus and contact with contaminated surfaces and objects. A person without tonsils can contract the infection if they come into contact with someone carrying it, so getting strep without tonsils is possible.
What Is Strep Throat?
Strep throat is an infection caused by Streptococcus bacteria. It usually affects the back of the throat and tonsils, causing pain and inflammation, when it causes strep pharyngitis. Treatment typically includes antibiotics to clear up the infection and home remedies such as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medication to manage symptoms.
Strep Throat Symptoms
- A sore throat
- Pain when swallowing
- Fever
- Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
- Petechiae – tiny, red spots on the roof of the mouth
- Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck
If left untreated, strep throat can lead to complications, particularly in children,although this is uncommon. Although not an emergency, it is suggested that you seek medical attention if you suspect you may have strep throat to prevent further complications.
Tonsillitis vs. Strep Throat
Tonsillitis and strep throat are different, although they may cause similar symptoms because both can cause the tonsils to swell.
Doctors differentiate between the two conditions by determining the cause – a bacterial infection causes strep throat. In contrast, tonsillitis can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection.
This means that while both require medical attention, each treatment is different. Strep throat is usually treated with antibiotics, while tonsillitis usually does not require antibiotics, depending on its cause.
Antibiotics work best if they are taken for the entire course of treatment prescribed by your doctor. It’s essential to finish all the medication, even if you start to feel better before completing the entire prescription.
Can I Go to Urgent Care Centers for Tonsillitis or Strep Throat?
If you think you may have tonsillitis or strep throat, visit an urgent care center for diagnosis and treatment. Tonsillitis and strep throat are common illnesses that can cause severe discomfort At an urgent care center, a qualified medical professional can properly diagnose your condition and provide the necessary treatment.
Your doctor will likely perform a physical examination of your throat and run some tests, if necessary, to confirm the diagnosis. Depending on the results, they may need to prescribe antibiotics to help treat the infection, as well as other medications to help manage symptoms.
It is also essential to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding rest and other home remedies to help speed up your recovery. This includes getting plenty of rest, drinking lots of fluids, avoiding contact with others who are sick, and taking any medication as prescribed by your doctor. Following the recommended treatment plan can help ensure that you get well quickly.
Head to an American Family Care Location for Treatment
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Visit an AFC clinic to receive treatment today.
