As our communities continue to manage the ongoing presence of COVID-19, understanding the symptoms associated with the virus remains crucial. Among the most common warning signs of the infection is a sore throat. This symptom can be difficult to differentiate from other causes like strep, seasonal allergies, or a common cold. In this blog, we’ll explore how to identify a COVID-19 related sore throat so you can seek the appropriate care when necessary and reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
For same-day COVID-19 testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl. Our board-certified medical providers can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and plan treatment accordingly. Just walk-in, book telemedicine, or schedule an in-person visit below!
How To Differentiate a COVID-19 Sore Throat
A sore throat caused by COVID-19 might not always feel very different from one caused by a cold or flu, but there are subtle differences. COVID-19 often causes a wide range of symptoms beyond a sore throat. Watch for symptoms like fever, fatigue, shortness of breath, loss of taste or smell, cough, or body aches. A sore throat without these additional symptoms may not indicate COVID-19. While sore throats caused by allergies or mild colds are generally mild and tolerable, a sore throat from Covid might feel more painful or persistent, lasting longer than a typical sore throat.
Additionally, COVID-19 sore throats can start mild but can worsen over time. It’s important to monitor the progression of your symptoms, especially if they intensify or are accompanied by breathing issues or chest pain.
When To Suspect COVID-19 Infection
Certain situations make it more likely that your sore throat could be related to COVID-19. Consider these scenarios:
- Exposure to a Confirmed Case: If you’ve recently been in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, even a mild sore throat should be taken seriously. Quarantine and testing and crucial steps in preventing the spread of the virus.
- Community Transmission Levels: In times of high community transmission, a sore throat combined with other symptoms is more likely to be related to COVID-19. Staying updated on local case numbers can help assess your risk.
Seeking Medical Attention For a COVID-19 Sore Throat
The only definitive way to know if your sore throat is caused by COVID-19 is through testing. Rapid antigen tests or PCR tests are both effective in detecting the virus. If you suspect you have Covid, it’s important to get tested as soon as possible. Ideally, you should test at the onset of symptoms. Until you receive your results, it’s important to self-isolate to avoid transmitting the virus to others. While most cases of COVID-19 result in mild symptoms, a severe sore throat with other concerning signs could indicate serious illness. Timely testing and treatment can help manage the condition effectively.
Get Walk-In Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl in Littleton, CO
Identifying a COVID-19 related sore throat involves recognizing the symptoms in combination with other signs of the virus and assessing your exposure risk. When in doubt, testing is the best course of action. If you’re unsure about your symptoms, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl. Our medical team is available seven days a week for guidance, testing, and treatment to ensure your health and the safety of those around you. We’re dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to all patients and families in the Littleton, CO area. Just walk-in! Our facility accepts most health insurance plans and offers cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about COVID-19 symptoms, testing, or treatment, call us directly at (720) 818-8010.
