Strep throat can cause many different symptoms beyond those of a typical sore throat. Also known as “streptococcal pharyngitis,” strep throat is an infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria that can be spread through contact with an infected individual from salivary spray, often through coughing or sneezing. This can be an uncomfortable condition that lasts between 5-to-8 days, and is usually eased with proper antibiotic treatment.
Compared to causes for a sore throat, strep throat is different because it is caused by a bacteria infection rather than a viral infection. At CareFirst Urgent Care, we can diagnose and prescribe the proper antibiotics for adults and children who have strep throat.
We offer convenient walk-in service and our typical patients are in and out of our offices in under 45 minutes, so that you will be able to get back to doing the important things in your day. W
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Urgent care centers are among the best places to get tested for strep throat. CareFirst Urgent Care offers quick help with walk-in availability and treatment times (often under 45 minutes door-to-door) that allow you to get prompt and personalized treatment and diagnosis for strep throat.
The spread of the bacteria causing strep throat can be hard to detect due to the incubation period, as there are no discernable symptoms. The best protection against strep throat is to be proactive in washing your hands and avoiding contact with someone who is sick, since the most common transmission is through close proximity.
The bacteria responsible for strep throat is spread primarily through contact. Infection rates are very common because the bacteria responsible has an incubation period of 2-to-5 days where you are contagious—but still may not feel any symptoms. If you are either around others who are not covering their mouths when sneezing or coughing, or those who do not wash their hands, you are at risk of contracting the bacteria.
Compared to a typical sore throat, with strep throat, you can have a number of different symptoms. In addition to having a sore throat, you may also experience:
Notice that coughing is not listed as a symptom. Unlike viral throat infections, the bacteria that causes strep throat does not impact the lower respiratory tract, which is the main cause for coughing. Symptoms of coughing help to determine whether your infection is bacterial or viral.
Kids and adults may also experience fatigue and stomach discomfort when infected with strep throat. Toddlers who have this condition may show signs of increased irritability.
When you are at home, gargling a salt water mixture can help provide relief for strep throat symptoms. Hot tea with honey can also have a soothing effect on the throat. If you are experiencing fever, or pain and discomfort from the infection, you can take over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol or ibuprofen.
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