As cases of strep throat begin to rise in our communities, many people may be left wondering questions about the illness. Whether you want to learn more about the signs, the contagion period, or how to get symptom relief, this blog will help you find some clarity. At AFC Urgent Care Short Hills, we understand how a sore throat can be painful and disruptive to your daily routine. Visit our walk-in clinic anytime you’re experiencing illness symptoms for walk-in diagnosis and comprehensive treatment from our team of medical providers.
Signs and Symptoms of Strep Throat
The primary sign that you’re experiencing strep throat is a sore throat that won’t go away. Strep carries many symptoms that can feel uncomfortable and painful. If left untreated, strep throat can develop into potential complications.
The common symptoms of strep throat include:
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Red and swollen tonsils
- Swollen lymph nodes
- White, patchy spots in throat
The symptoms of strep throat in children can look more severe, including nausea. If you or your loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, come visit AFC Short Hills to be diagnosed and treated by a medical professional.
How Long is Strep Throat Contagious?
Strep throat is an infection of the throat and tonsils, and it is highly contagious. The infection is caused by a type of bacteria called group A Streptococcus. If you’ve been infected with strep throat, you can be contagious for up to a few days before your symptoms even show. The length of your illness depends on when you seek treatment. Since strep is caused by a bacterial infection, it can be treated with antibiotics. If left untreated without antibiotic treatment, the contagious symptoms will typically pass within seven days. With antibiotic treatment, strep will subside much quicker.
How is Strep Throat Treated?
As mentioned, strep throat is treated with antibiotics. To first begin your treatment regimen, a medical provider will diagnose your illness with a strep test. If the strep test is positive, your medical provider will usually prescribe antibiotics. However, if your strep test is negative, your provider may recommend a throat culture swab to ensure the bacteria isn’t there, especially for younger children and those at a higher risk for rheumatic fever.
Penicillin or amoxicillin antibiotics are typically used to treat strep throat. Antibiotics help those with strep throat symptoms feel better much faster, and shorten the amount of time that you’re contagious. At AFC Urgent Care Short Hills, our medical providers are here to help you find symptom relief. We may also recommend over-the-counter medications, rest, and plenty of fluids as a part of your treatment plan.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Short Hills for Care
At AFC Urgent Care Short Hills, your health is our top priority. Our walk-in clinic provides general illness treatment and strep tests seven days a week. Don’t leave your symptoms untreated, and take advantage of the walk-ins services at AFC Short Hills to support your overall health and wellness. Visit AFC Urgent Care Short Hills on a walk-in basis. If you have any additional questions about strep throat treatment, or other urgent care services we provide, please call us directly at (973) 671-5350.
