Strep Throat Symptoms

What are Strep Throat Symptoms?

What is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that will continue to worsen as time goes on. Strep throat symptoms come on suddenly and strep throat symptoms are more severe than a simple sore throat. Strep throat is contagious and is spread from the sneeze or cough of a someone with strep throat symptoms.

Are strep throat symptoms different than a sore throat?

Yes. A sore throat is usually a symptom of a virus, like a cold or laryngitis.  A sore throat normally goes away after the first couple of days. A sore throat is normally irritated by other viral symptoms, such as coughing, congestion and post-nasal drip.  

What are strep throat symptoms?

Strep throat symptoms appear very suddenly and can include the following:

• Sore throat
• Fever of 101 degrees F or above
• Severe pain when swallowing
• Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white dots of pus
• Headache
• Nausea
• Swollen glands in the neck
• Body aches

Are strep throat symptoms contagious?

Yes. Strep throat is passed as an airborne illness when infected people sneeze or cough.  Strep throat cannot be treated using home remedies and is known to move through families. If you have strep throat symptoms you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Can I get tested for strep throat at FastMed?

Yes. FastMed has a rapid test for strep and with labs at each of our FastMed walk-in clinics, test results are almost immediate. Once strep is confirmed we can start you on the appropriate course of antibiotics. Our medical team can provide you with your prescription, saving you time and money by leaving the clinic with your medications in-hand.  We’re open 365 days a year, accept most major insurance plans and no appointment is necessary.  Because strep throat symptoms are easily passed in close quarters, like home, school or work, it’s recommended that you get started with treatment as soon as possible.  Please remember when taking antibiotics to finish the entire course of medication even if you start to feel better.

Related articles:

Strep Throat Resource Center  |  Rapid Strep Testing |  Strep Throat When to Go to the ER |  Can You Talk When You Have Strep Throat