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 most common cause of sore throats, but they also are common when you have a cold or the flu. Some bacterial infections and strep throat can be causes of this too.
Symptoms of a Sore Throat
General signs and symptoms of a sore throat are:
- Pain that Worsens with Swallowing
- Painful or Scratchy Throat
- Sore, Swollen Glands
- Swollen, Red Tonsils
- Hoarse Voice
- White Patches on the Tonsils
- Trouble Swallowing
If your sore throat is caused by a virus or is the result of the cold or flu, then you do not require any medical treatment. Over-the-counter medications can help to relieve symptoms. If your sore throat is the result of a bacterial infection, 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 high 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.
