Nothing is worse than waking up with a sore throat. The constant, lingering irritation in your throat can cause a significant decline in your quality of life. When sore throats occur, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms indicating you’re dealing with a strep infection. This blog will explore common signs of strep throat, and highlight various ways to get quick relief for your sore throat.
For same-day sore throat and strep throat treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Louisville today. Our team of medical providers can examine your condition and make the best recommendations for care so you can feel better as quickly as possible.
How To Find Quick Relief From a Sore Throat
When you have a sore throat, the first thing you might be thinking about is how to get rid of it. Fortunately, there are a few helpful methods you can follow to relieve your sore throat. To soothe your throat pain, try the following tips:
- Gargle with salt water
- Sip on tea mixed with honey
- Suck on throat lozenges
- Stay hydrated and drink water throughout the day
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers
- Avoid acidic foods
- Take a hot shower
- Get plenty of rest
Common Signs of Strep Throat
Sore throats are common indicators of streptococcus, or strep throat. Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils that causes lingering symptoms if left untreated. It’s important to be aware of strep symptoms, so you can be sure to seek the appropriate medical attention when necessary. If you’ve tried all the remedies listed above, and your sore throat is still lingering or worsening overtime, there’s a good chance you’ve been infected with strep.
Common signs and symptoms of strep throat include:
- Scatchy, sore throat
- Fever
- Difficulty swallowing
- Red and swollen tonsils
- White patches on the tonsils
- Swollen lymph nodes
When To Seek Medical Attention For a Sore Throat That Won’t Go Away
If you have a sore throat that persists for more than a week or two, you should consider seeking medical attention. Sore throats that don’t go away could be a sign of an underlying condition that requires specific treatment– like an infection, allergy, or other more serious condition. Additionally, you should seek professional care if your sore throat is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, difficulty swallowing, or swollen glands. These symptoms can indicate you’ve been infected with strep which typically requires antibiotics to treat.
In general, if you are unsure whether your sore throat requires medical treatment, it’s always better to be cautious and seek guidance. A healthcare provider can help diagnose the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. For same-day sore throat care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Louisville today! If you have any additional questions, please contact our office directly at (720) 961-9700.