Having a sore throat is a common illness symptom. Mild sore throats can be associated with many different infections, however, a severe sore throat is likely an indication that you have strep throat. Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes a severe sore throat along with other symptoms including a fever, fatigue, and swollen tonsils. One way that you can determine if your sore throat is caused by strep throat is whether you have other illness symptoms. Symptoms such as congestion are not related to strep throat, and likely mean you have another illness such as a viral infection like the flu. If you’re experiencing congestion or a sore throat, visit AFC Waltham. Our walk-in urgent care clinic offers same-day illness symptom treatment for patients in Waltham, MA - all without having to schedule an appointment. Walk-in today!

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What Causes Congestion

Congestion is a symptom of an illness which occurs due to the sinus canals being completely backed up with mucus. This often happens due to infections such as colds. As your body tries to flush out the pathogen making you sick, it creates too much mucus which can get stuck deep within your sinuses and block them. Congestion can happen as a result of many different illnesses. Other causes include seasonal allergies and airborne irritants. However, strep throat is not known to lead to congestion.

Symptoms of Strep Throat

Symptoms of strep throat tend to stay concentrated in the throat and are unlikely to spread to the sinuses. Strep throat symptoms typically appear 2-5 days after exposure. Symptoms can last up to 10 days without treatment, however typically last only a few days with proper care.

Symptoms of strep throat include:

• Severe sore throat
• Swollen tonsils
• Trouble swallowing
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Loss of appetite
• Pus draining from tonsils
• Tiny red dots in the mouth

Strep Throat Diagnosis & Treatment near Waltham, MA

Strep throat can cause painful symptoms. If you think you may have been exposed to strep throat or are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important that you seek urgent medical care. Strep throat is typically treated using antibiotics which will ensure that you recover quickly without spreading your illness to others. Strep throat is highly contagious and easily spreads in places like schools and offices. It is important to always seek care if you think you could have strep throat.

Walk Into AFC Waltham for Same-Day Illness Treatment in Waltham, MA

If you’re experiencing symptoms associated with strep throat, it is important that you seek medical care. Strep throat typically requires treatment with prescription antibiotics. Leaving strep throat without treatment can result it your symptoms continuing to worsen and developing into secondary infections. At AFC Urgent Care Waltham, our dedicated medical team is available every day, including weekends, to provide patients in Waltham, MA with convenient care. Simply walk into the clinic for same-day sore throat treatment when it’s convenient for you. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable care for patients without insurance.