Strep throat is a common (and dreaded) bacterial infection, so it’s easy for your mind to go there whenever your child complains of a sore throat. But what does strep throat look like? Learn how to spot some of the telltale signs and symptoms, and when to head to Xpress Wellness Urgent Care for treatment.
What is Strep Throat?
Strep throat is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact. While most commonly seen in school-aged children, anyone can come down with a case of strep throat. Winter and early spring are typically when strep throat cases are at their highest, but it can strike any time of the year.
Symptoms of Strep Throat
If you’ve ever had strep throat, you’ll likely remember the feeling. It hits fast and hard, usually with the following symptoms:
- Sudden, severe sore throat (usually without a cough or congestion)
- Pain under the jaw or in the neck
- Fever (usually 101°F or higher)
- Headache or fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting (more common in children)
Visible Signs of Strep Throat
There are some telling signs that a sore throat may be caused by strep. Some visible signs of strep throat include:
- Red, swollen tonsils
- White patches or spots, or streaks of pus on the tonsils or back of the throat
- Tiny red spots (petechiae) on the roof of the mouth
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
These signs and symptoms can overlap with other infections, which is why it’s important to be tested for strep throat and not just treat based on appearance alone.
Is it Strep?
If you suspect strep, it’s time to be evaluated by a medical provider. If strep throat goes untreated, it can lead to complications like rheumatic fever or throat abscesses. Thankfully, strep can usually be diagnosed in 10 minutes or less with a simple swab test at Xpress Wellness Urgent Care.
Because it’s caused by bacteria, strep throat can be treated effectively with antibiotics. Antibiotics also significantly reduce the amount of time strep throat is contagious. Untreated strep throat can be contagious for two weeks or longer, while patients started on antibiotics are less contagious (and usually start to feel better) within 24-48 hours.
Feel Better with Xpress Wellness Urgent Care
When a sore throat strikes, don’t wait it out. Xpress Wellness Urgent Care can diagnose strep throat quickly and begin treatment so that you or your child can get back to feeling better, faster. Find a location near you, and check-in online for quick, quality, convenient care.
