What is a Sore Throat?
A sore throat is characterized by pain, irritation, or scratchiness of the throat. This often worsens when you swallow and can obstruct your daily life. Pharyngitis is the cause of most sore throats, but they are also common when you have a common cold or the flu. A viral or bacterial infection and strep throat can be the cause of this too. Avoiding germs as much as possible and practicing good hygiene are the best ways to prevent sore throats.
Symptoms of a Sore Throat
General sore throat symptoms are:
- Throat pain that Worsens with Swallowing
- Painful or Scratchy Throat
- Sore, Swollen Glands
- Swollen, Red Tonsils
- Hoarse Voice
- White Patches on the Tonsils
- Trouble Swallowing
A sore throat caused by a virus or as the result of the cold or flu does not require any medical treatment. Over-the-counter cough medications and throat lozenges can help to relieve symptoms. If your sore throat is the result of bacterial infections, then you should seek medical treatment. To get checked by a professional come into WellCare Urgent Care Center.
Strep Throat
This condition is very contagious and is caused by a bacterial infection. It causes the throat to feel scratchy and painful. The tonsils may also appear to be swollen, with pus and white patches. Along with these symptoms, strep throat may also come along with a fever, headache, rash, body aches, and nausea.
Strep throat is very contagious. This can be spread through droplets in the air when someone sneezes, coughs, or even talks. It is also spread through sharing of food and drinks or touching infected surfaces. Children are at a higher risk for strep throat than others. To cure strep throat medications such as antibiotics are needed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sore Throats
How do you know if you have strep or just a sore throat?
How long are you contagious with strep?
Can you have strep without having a sore throat/fever?
How can you cure a sore throat that is not strep related?
What should you not eat/drink with a sore throat?
Come into WellCare
If you have a sore throat, it is important to get checked out by a professional to make sure it’s not a bacterial infection. Visit WellCare Urgent Care Center in Grand Rapids to get professional care. Schedule a same-day appointment online at our Cascade and Leonard locations.
