Few discomforts are worse than a sore throat, and while they are a common complaint in the fall and winter months, not all are the same. Though some sore throats are caused by viruses, strep throat (a bacterial infection caused by
Streptococcus pyogenes) requires a specific course of treatment to prevent complications.
Recognizing Strep Throat Symptoms
Strep throat symptoms can often appear suddenly: pain and difficulty swallowing, swollen and red or patchy tonsils, severe pain in the throat, painful glands in the neck and fever.
Strep throat can also cause: headaches and body aches.
Viral sore throat symptoms can be cough, congestion, sneezing and hoarsness.
Treatment of Strep Throat
Strep throat can be diagnosed with a rapid test — and to avoid antibiotic resistance, it’s important that antibiotics only be administered for strep and not a viral sore throat. Over-the-counter medications to reduce fever and pain, along with throat lozenges, rest and fluids, can also provide relief.
Understanding the key differences between strep throat and a viral sore throat can ensure quick and accurate diagnosis and treatment, reduce the spread of illness and bring about better outcomes for patients of all ages.