How does strep throat differ from a sore throat?

A sore throat is a broad term used to describe discomfort or pain in the throat, which can result from various causes.

Strep throat, on the other hand, is typically characterized by a sore throat but is specifically caused by an infection from a type of bacteria known as group A streptococcus, affecting the throat and tonsils.

How can I determine if I’ve contracted strep throat?

Strep throat might be the culprit if you experience a raw, painful sensation when swallowing, and this sore throat typically develops rapidly.

Additional symptoms to watch for include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Muscle aches
• Decreased appetite
• Headache
• Nausea
• Abdominal discomfort or vomiting
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Red spots on the roof of the mouth
• Swollen and reddened tonsils

Strep throat usually does not come with a runny nose, cough, or red eyes. These symptoms are usually signs of a virus or allergy.

How can you get strep throat?

Strep throat is highly contagious and spreads when someone who is infected with the bacteria coughs or sneezes and releases the bacteria into the air. If you come into contact with the bacteria you can be infected and get strep throat.

Good hygiene, including handwashing, is very important to lower the chance of spreading infections like strep throat.

How do you diagnose strep throat?

Your doctor will talk to you about your symptoms and they can also test for strep throat using a rapid test. A cotton swab is used to take a sample from the back of your throat. In a few minutes your doctor can tell you if the swab tested positive for strep throat.

What is the treatment for strep throat?

Upon confirming the presence of strep throat, your physician will likely advise antibiotics to eliminate the causative bacteria. It’s important to note that even if you start feeling better, you should adhere to the prescribed antibiotic regimen. This ensures the complete eradication of the bacteria responsible for strep throat. Failure to finish the antibiotic course can allow the bacteria to persist in your throat, potentially causing a recurrence of symptoms.

Additionally, rest and over-the-counter medications can assist in your recovery and symptom relief.

Can someone at Teston Medical help me?

Of course! Schedule a doctor’s appointment at our walk in facility in Vaughan and one of our team members will be happy to help. Our licensed Canadian physicians can help diagnose and can also provide prescriptions.