Two illnesses that are common during the late fall and winter months are strep throat and mononucleosis, commonly just called mono. The symptoms of both illnesses can feel similar in some cases, primarily causing a sore and irritated throat. This can make it difficult for people to diagnose themselves without a proper test.

It’s important to know how to identify the symptoms of both strep throat and mono, so that you can get treated accordingly. In this blog, we’ll explore the difference between both illnesses and outline how to get proper treatment. Visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth for same-day general illness diagnosis and treatment with no appointment necessary.

Mono Symptoms

Unlike strep throat, mono is a viral infection that is typically caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). On the contrary, mono is a bacterial infection which means the course of treatment is different for both illnesses. That’s why it’s crucial to be aware of the differences in symptoms and get a proper diagnosis– so you can handle the illnesses correctly.

The common symptoms of mono include:

• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Chills
• Body pains
• Swollen spleen
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Headache

Strep Throat Symptoms

One of the best ways to distinguish mono from strep throat is by examining your level of fatigue. Mono is known for causing an intense feeling of tiredness that is disruptive to your normal routine– a symptom that is not common in cases of strep throat. As mentioned, strep is a bacterial infection that is typically caused by group A streptococcus.

The common symptoms of strep throat include:

• Sore throat
• White, patchy spots in throat
• Headache
• Low-grade fever
• Abdomen pain
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Nausea

Treatment Options for Mono & Strep

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. The first and most important step in finding symptom relief is knowing what your illness is. At AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth, our medical providers specialize in diagnosing both mono and strep. With labs on-site, patients can get the results of their testing back quickly and know exactly what steps to take to get proper treatment. Mono is typically treated with a lot of rest, fluids, and pain relievers. Since the infection is caused by a virus, antibiotics are not an option for treatment (unless there are other bacterial infections, like an ear infection, present in conjunction with mono).

On the other hand, strep throat can be treated with antibiotics since it’s a bacterial infection. Our medical providers will usually either prescribe penicillin or amoxicillin to help alleviate symptoms. If you’re showing signs of either strep throat or mono, you should seek medical attention in order to diagnose your symptoms and be on your way to feeling better.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth for Treatment

The walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth is open seven days a week, with extended weekend hours for our busiest patients. Our team of licensed, board-certified medical providers can diagnose your illness quickly thanks to our on-site labs. Visit us anytime you notice symptoms or have concern you’ve been infected by someone you know. If you have any additional questions about mono and strep treatment, or other urgent care services we provide, please call us directly at (908) 677-5900 or book an appointment online.