Strep throat, caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes, is a common infection characterized by a sore and scratchy throat. If you’ve ever experienced the discomfort of strep throat, you may wonder whether it will resolve on its own without medical intervention, or if professional treatment is necessary. In this blog, we’ll explore the answer to that question as well as outline various treatment options available so you can recover quickly.
For same-day sore/strep throat treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston. Our team provides comprehensive urgent care services seven days a week, so you can get back to feeling your best. No appointments are required– simply walk-in today!
Understanding Strep Throat: Causes and Symptoms
Understanding the causes and symptoms of strep throat is essential for prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by the group A Streptococcus bacteria. This contagious infection primarily affects the throat and tonsils, and it can spread easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or shares personal items. Strep throat symptoms can vary from person to person based on the severity of infection and the overall health of the individual affected.
Common symptoms associated with strep throat include:
- Sore Throat
- Fever
- Swollen Tonsils and Lymph Nodes
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Lack of Cough
How Is Strep Throat Treated?
Strep throat is a bacterial infection, and unlike viral infections like the common cold, it typically requires treatment with antibiotics to fully resolve. Antibiotics help kill the bacteria responsible for the infection, reducing symptoms, preventing complications, and decreasing the risk of spreading the infection to others. Without treatment, strep throat symptoms may persist or worsen over time. While the body’s immune system can eventually fight off the infection on its own in some cases, this process can take longer and may result in prolonged discomfort and potential complications. Additionally, untreated strep throat can lead to serious issues like rheumatic fever, kidney inflammation, and the spread of bacteria to other parts of the body.
Relying on the body’s natural defenses to combat strep throat can be risky, especially for certain vulnerable populations– young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is essential to prevent complications and ensure a speedy recovery.
Tips To Alleviate Strep Throat Symptoms
Seeking medical attention and obtaining a proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and management of strep throat. A healthcare provider can perform a rapid strep test or throat culture to confirm the presence of streptococcal bacteria and prescribe antibiotics if necessary. In addition to antibiotics, there are several steps you can take at home to further alleviate symptoms and promote healing:
- Rest
- Hydration
- Gargle with warm salt water
- Use OTC pain relievers
- Avoid irritants like smoke
- Practice good hygiene
Get Same-Day Strep Throat Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Livingston
While it’s possible for strep throat to resolve on its own in some cases, prompt treatment with antibiotics is recommended to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and shorten the duration of illness. If you suspect that you have strep throat or are experiencing persistent symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and management. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston for same-day sore/strep throat relief. Our medical team is dedicated to providing the best care for all patients in Livingston, NJ and surrounding communities. We accept most major health insurance plans and offer cost-effective treatment options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about strep throat treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (973) 601-2626.
