A sore throat is a common ailment that most of us have probably experienced at some point in our lives. Whether it’s due to seasonal allergies, a common cold, or something more serious like strep throat, the discomfort that a sore throat brings can be significant. So, how do you differentiate between a regular sore throat, and one caused by strep? In this blog, we’ll discuss the differences between these conditions to help you make more informed decisions about your health.
For same-day sore/strep throat treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale. Our providers can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and recommend the proper treatment to aid your recovery. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance by pre-registering below!
Understanding Sore Throats
First off, it’s important to understand the difference between a sore throat and strep throat. A sore throat can be caused by various factors, including viral infections (like the common cold or flu), bacterial infections, irritants like smoke, allergies, and even dry air. Symptoms typically include pain or discomfort in the throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen glands in the neck, and sometimes even a mild fever or cough. In most cases, a simple sore throat will resolve on its own within a few days of adequate rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies like throat lozenges or pain relievers.
Strep Throat Signs and Symptoms
On the other hand, strep throat is caused by the Streptococcus bacteria and requires medical treatment. While strep shares similarities with a regular sore throat, it often presents additional signs that can help you differentiate it from other infections. Strep is highly contagious, and can spread easily through respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically begin with a sudden onset of a sore throat, and the severity can range from person to person depending on the severity of infection.
Common symptoms of strep throat include:
- Sudden onset of throat pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever of 101°F
- Swollen and tender lymph nodes
- White patches or pus on tonsils
- Absence of runny nose or cough
When To Seek Medical Attention
So, when is it necessary to seek medical attention for a sore throat? If your symptoms are mild and improve within a few days of self-care measures, you may not need to see a doctor, However, certain signs indicate the need for prompt medical evaluation. If you experience severe throat pain, difficulty swallowing, or a high fever, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, if your symptoms persist for more than a week or worsen overtime, it’s essential to consult a provider. If you suspect that you have strep throat due to the severity of your symptoms, be sure to visit an urgent care center for rapid testing and prescribed treatment.
Seeking timely medical attention for a sore throat is important for both relieving symptoms and preventing potential complications. Accurate diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the duration of illness and prevent the spread of infection to others.
Get Same-Day Sore Throat Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale
While some sore throats can be mild and self-limiting, it’s important to monitor your symptoms closely and know when to seek medical attention. Don’t hesitate to consult a medical provider for proper evaluation and treatment. At AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale, your health is our top priority! Our board-certified medical providers are here seven days a week to provide exceptional urgent care with no appointment necessary. Our facility accepts most health insurance plans and offers low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about sore/strep throat treatment, or other services we provide, please contact our medical office directly at (303) 935-1000.
