Strep Throat vs Sore Throat: How to tell one from the other?

If you’re dealing with a sore throat, you might be wondering if you’re experiencing a common sore throat or something more serious — like strep throat. Both conditions can cause pain and irritation in the throat, but they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Understanding the distinctions between strep throat and a regular sore throat is crucial for effective management and recovery.

Strep throat vs sore throat: Symptoms

When differentiating between strep throat and a sore throat, it's helpful to consider the symptoms you’re experiencing. According to the CDC, a sore throat is often a symptom of a viral infection, such as the common cold, and is typically accompanied by other cold-related signs. In contrast, strep throat is caused by a bacterial infection and presents with more specific symptoms:

Sore throat:

• Runny nose

• Watery eyes

• Sneezing

• Mild throat pain

• Coughing

A sore throat is usually a symptom of a cold and is often accompanied by other cold symptoms, indicating a viral infection.

Strep throat:

• Severe pain when swallowing

• High fever

• White spots on tonsils

• Swollen neck glands

• Red and swollen throat

• Hot potato voice (muffled or thick speech)

• Drooling (due to difficulty swallowing

• Trouble opening the jaw (trismus)

Strep throat symptoms tend to be more severe and are a clear indication of a bacterial infection that may require medical treatment, according to the CDC.

Treatments

Treating strep throat typically involves antibiotics, which help eliminate the bacterial infection and reduce the duration of symptoms, according to the CDC. While antibiotics are effective for strep throat, there are also several strategies to alleviate pain and discomfort for both strep throat and sore throat. Implementing these remedies can provide relief and support your recovery process:

• Get as much rest as you can: Allow your body to recover by prioritizing sleep and relaxation.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and broths, to keep your throat moist and prevent dehydration.

• Gargle with a saltwater solution: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle to help reduce swelling and soothe the throat.

• Suck on ice chips: Ice chips can provide temporary relief by numbing the throat and reducing inflammation.

• Take over-the-counter medicine: Non-prescription medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and fever.

• Use throat lozenges: Sucking on throat lozenges can provide soothing relief and stimulate saliva production.

• Humidify the air: Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, which may help ease throat irritation.

• Avoid irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong odors, and other irritants that can exacerbate throat pain.

When to see a doctor?

While many cases of sore throat resolve on their own, specific symptoms may warrant a visit to the doctor for further assessment and treatment. Knowing when to seek medical attention for throat discomfort is crucial, as certain signs can indicate a more serious condition that requires professional evaluation:

• Fever that lasts more than two days: Persistent fever can signal a more severe infection that may require treatment.

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing: If you experience shortness of breath or significant trouble swallowing, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.

• Your throat has streaks of pus: Visible white or yellow streaks on the tonsils or throat may indicate a bacterial infection that needs to be evaluated.

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve: If throat pain is intense and does not improve with home remedies or over-the-counter medications, a doctor’s visit is advisable.

• Swollen neck glands: Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck that are painful or tender may suggest an infection that needs further investigation.

• Rash: The presence of a rash, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, could indicate a more serious condition.

• Symptoms that worsen or do not improve: If your symptoms persist or worsen despite home treatment, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional.

• History of recurrent strep throat: If you have a history of frequent strep throat infections, it may be time to discuss preventive measures with your doctor.

Urgent care near me

If you’re experiencing throat discomfort and are unsure whether it’s a sore throat or strep throat, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. Solv makes it easy to find urgent care facilities near you, allowing you to get the attention you need quickly and conveniently.