Introduction
Strep throat is a common bacterial throat infection that affects millions of people every year. It’s caused by group A streptococcus bacteria and can be spread through coughing, sneezing, or touching shared objects. Recognizing the symptoms of strep throat is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we’ll go over the seven common symptoms of strep throat and provide tips for self-diagnosis.
7 Common Symptoms of Strep Throat to Watch Out For
The following symptoms are typical of strep throat:
- Fever
- Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks
- Sore throat that comes on suddenly, often accompanied by difficulty swallowing
- Headache
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Nausea/vomiting (particularly in children)
- Rash (particularly in children)
The Telltale Signs That You May Have Strep Throat
There are a few key indicators that can help you differentiate strep throat from other types of throat infections:
- Rapid and severe onset of symptoms
- Absence of cold symptoms (such as coughing, sneezing, and congestion)
- Presence of strep throat symptoms (as outlined in Section II)
How to Differentiate Between a Common Cold and Strep Throat
The symptoms of strep throat can be similar to those of the common cold. However, there are a few key differences to look out for:
- Strep throat symptoms tend to come on suddenly and can be more severe than cold symptoms
- Fever is a common symptom of strep throat
- A sore throat associated with strep throat can be very painful and can make it difficult to swallow or talk
What to Do If You Think You Have Strep Throat
If you suspect you have strep throat, it’s important to take care of yourself and protect others from infection. Here are a few things you can do:
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids
- Use over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage symptoms
- Gargle with salt water to soothe a sore throat
- Stay home from work/school to avoid spreading the infection
- Talk to your doctor before taking antibiotics
Self-Diagnosing Strep Throat: Helpful Tips and Advice
While self-diagnosing is not recommended in all cases, it can be helpful to know what to look out for when it comes to strep throat. Here are a few tips:
- Monitor your symptoms carefully and keep track of when they occur
- Take your temperature regularly to check for fever
- Pay attention to the timing of symptoms, such as when they worsen or improve
- If in doubt, consult with your doctor
When to Visit a Doctor If You Suspect You Have Strep Throat
It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have strep throat. Here are a few scenarios where it’s particularly crucial:
- If your symptoms persist for more than a few days
- If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing
- If you develop a persistent fever
It’s also a good idea to call ahead to your doctor’s office to let them know you’re coming in with suspected strep throat. This way, they can take precautions to prevent the spread of infection.
Knowing the Difference Between Strep Throat and Other Sore Throat Infections
Other conditions like the flu, a cold, or seasonal allergies can also cause a sore throat. However, there are a few ways to tell the difference:
- Strep throat usually comes on suddenly and can cause a high fever
- Cold symptoms like sneezing and coughing are usually absent in strep throat
- Allergy symptoms like itchy, watery eyes and a runny nose are usually absent in strep throat
Conclusion
Strep throat can be a painful and unpleasant condition, but recognizing the symptoms and seeking prompt medical attention can help you get back to feeling like yourself again. Remember to pay attention to your body and seek medical attention if you suspect you have strep throat.
