Do I Have Strep Throat? | AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway

The moment your throat starts hurting, you might instantly think you have strep throat. Although there are more than 3 million cases of strep throat each year among Americans, strep throat isn’t the only cause of a sore throat.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care of Chapman Highway wants to share some insight about strep throat and other common causes of a sore throat, so you can get back to feeling your best.

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes the throat to feel sore and scratchy. This soreness can also be amplified while swallowing.

As a result, it is important to make sure you see a physician as soon as possible so that you can get a diagnosis, as well as a treatment plan, to prevent spreading your germs to other people.

How is Strep Throat Spread?

While strep throat is easily treated, it is also extremely contagious.  Strep throat is often spread in office and school situations, where those infected are in close proximity to a dense population of people.  Because of this, children are often the most susceptible to being infected.

Causes of a Sore Throat

Just because you have a sore throat, doesn’t necessarily mean you are dealing with strep throat.  Your sore throat could be caused by a number of things, including:

• Allergies
• Cold
• Acid reflux
• Flu
• Strep throat

When Should I Call a Doctor?

While a sore throat can sometimes be treated with at-home remedies, such as over-the-counter pain medications, lozenges, a humidifier and increased fluid intake, sometimes medical attention is needed.

If you haven’t gotten relief from home remedies within a few days, make it a point to stop by our Chapman Highway urgent care center, as you might be experiencing another medical condition like the flu or strep.

What Is The Treatment of Strep Throat?

• Try OTC or prescription pain relievers.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially warm drinks.
• Take an antibiotic as prescribed.
• Try throat lozenges.
• Get plenty of rest.

Have you been experiencing a sore throat for a while? It might be time to make a visit to AFC Urgent Care on Chapman Highway for a medical evaluation and treatment plan. We are located just minutes from the University of Tennessee campus, and we are open seven days a week to serve you!