Sore and strep throat treatment

A sore throat can be a symptom of many different conditions such as the flu, strep throat, or allergies. But how can you tell the difference between a sore throat and strep throat? It is sometimes difficult to know the cause of your sore throat based on symptoms alone. Conditions may involve: 

• Painful or irritated throat
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Body aches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Hoarseness

The only way to know if it’s strep throat or a sore throat caused by other conditions is with a strep throat test. Only a healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms, administer a strep test and determine the best course of action for you.

If you have a sore throat that isn’t improving with at-home remedies or is accompanied by a high fever, it is best to visit a healthcare provider for an evaluation and possible strep throat diagnosis. When you visit any of our GoHealth Urgent Cares we will do an evaluation of your symptoms and conduct a strep throat test, if necessary. 

Strep throat treatment requires antibiotics, as it is caused by a bacterial infection. Your healthcare provider at GoHealth Urgent Care can also provide recommendations to soothe your symptoms while you wait for the antibiotic to work. While strep can go away on its own, after 1-2 miserable weeks, it is very important to receive treatment for strep throat to prevent possible rare, serious issues such as rheumatic fever and permanent heart disease.