Think you can't have strep because you don't have a fever? That's not necessarily the case. A sudden, painful sore throat can be a sign of strep throat, and some people with the infection never develop a fever.
If you're in West Long Branch and dealing with a sore throat, AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch provides strep throat evaluation and testing to help determine what's causing your symptoms. With kids back in school and fall activities getting underway, strep can make its way through classrooms, sports teams, and households. Knowing what symptoms to look for can help you decide when a sore throat may be worth getting checked.
What Is Strep Throat?
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus. It affects the throat and tonsils and spreads through close contact with an infected person.
Strep is especially common among school-aged children and teenagers. While a fever is a common symptom, it isn't present in every case.
Other signs may include:
- A sore throat that starts suddenly
- Pain when swallowing
- Red or swollen tonsils
- Swollen glands in the neck
- White patches or streaks on the tonsils
- Small red spots on the roof of the mouth
Can You Have Strep Without a Fever?
Yes. You can have strep throat without a fever. A normal temperature does not automatically rule out a strep infection.
The combination of symptoms matters more than one symptom by itself. For example, a sudden, painful sore throat with swollen tonsils or glands may be more concerning for strep, even if your temperature is normal.
On the other hand, coughing, a runny nose, hoarseness, or pink eye are more commonly associated with viral infections. Because the symptoms can overlap, you can't always tell the difference between strep and a virus just by looking at how you feel.
When Should You Get Tested for Strep?
A sudden or particularly painful sore throat is a good reason to get checked, especially if you're also experiencing swollen tonsils, swollen glands, or white patches.
A healthcare provider may perform a rapid strep test and, depending on the situation, a throat culture. These tests can determine whether group A Streptococcus is causing the infection.
If strep is confirmed, a provider can determine whether antibiotics are appropriate. Don't start leftover antibiotics or take medication prescribed for someone else. Antibiotics don't treat viral infections, and taking the wrong medication can delay the care you actually need.
Why Is Strep Common When School Starts?
Strep spreads through close contact, which makes classrooms, sports teams, and households common places for exposure. Children and teenagers are more likely to develop strep than adults, so cases can become more noticeable once school is back in session.
If your child comes home complaining of a sudden sore throat, don't use the presence or absence of a fever as the only deciding factor. Pay attention to the full picture, including how quickly the sore throat started and whether other symptoms are present.
Good handwashing and avoiding close contact with someone who is sick can also help reduce the spread.
When Should You See a Doctor for a Sore Throat?
Not every sore throat requires urgent care. A mild sore throat that comes with typical cold symptoms may improve on its own.
It's a good idea to get checked if your sore throat is severe, started suddenly, makes swallowing painful, or isn't getting better. You should also seek medical attention if you develop significant difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe swelling, or other symptoms that could point to a more serious infection.
Receive Strep Throat Treatment at AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch, NJ
If you're dealing with a sore throat and aren't sure whether you have strep, AFC Urgent Care can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether testing is appropriate.
AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch serves patients from West Long Branch, Long Branch, Eatontown, and surrounding Monmouth County communities. Walk-ins are welcome, making it possible to have a concerning sore throat evaluated without waiting for a primary care appointment.