Strep Throat Symptoms

What are Strep Throat Symptoms?

Strep Throat SymptomsThere is a big difference between a sore throat and strep throat. Strep throat is a bacterial infection - not a virus - so while a sore throat may resolve itself in a few days, strep throat symptoms require a trip to the doctor at FastMed. It can take 2-5 days before symptoms begin, but strep suffers can expect swollen glands, fever, and, occasionally, a skin rash. It's very important to be treated for strep throat because, if left untreated, it can create serious complications, like rheumatic fever. If you're experiencing strep throat symptoms, we encourage you to get tested for strep.

Here are some strep throat symptoms that indicate a need to seek medical attention:

  • Sore throat for longer than two days
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Fever higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Pus (white dots) on back of throat
  • For young children - excessive drooling

According to the National Institute of Health's Medical Library, strep throat most frequently strikes children from 5 to 15. Strep throat is highly contagious and is known to spread through families. Often, a child will picks up the illness at school and brings the bacteria into the household. It is important to note that anytime your child has a fever, it should be carefully monitored. Children's bodies heat up at a faster rate than adults and can quickly spike a fever.

Treat Strep Throat Symptoms at FastMed

FastMed has a rapid testing protocol to determine if you have strep throat. A quick swab of the throat goes to our in-house labs, so you don't have to wait for results from an outside lab. If the test is positive for strep, a physician at FastMed Urgent Care in NC or AZ will prescribe a course of treatment to alleviate your symptoms and help you feel better.  We are your local medical clinic, open 365 days per year, with no appointment necessary - bring your child when needed.

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