How can I tell whether I have strep throat or a sore throat?
2007-01-24 13:47:26 · 5 answers · asked by PEACE 1 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Infectious Diseases
Usually when you have strep throat, you will run a fever. If this is the first day, wait until tomorrow, and you will probably know if you are coming down with a cold. Many colds are preceded by a sore throat. If you have had this sore throat for a couple of days and it's not letting up, the Dr. will see you and give you a throat culture. That is where they take a swab and get some cells from your throat (painless) and send it to the lab where they can do a test to see if the cells have streptococcus in them. Doctors usually send you home with a five day supply of antibiotics in case you have strep, with a refill for five more days. They will call you with the results so you will know. Some doctor's offices can do the test while you are there. Good luck.
2007-01-24 15:04:38 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you've ever had a sore throat which was associated with cold or flu, you'll notice the difference when its strep. The pain is significantly greater and much more debilitating. You'll find you can swallow with a general sore throat but not with strep. Also, if you look at the back of your mouth, particularly tonsils and throat, you will see white or yellow spots, and/or roof of the mouth will be covered with red spots. The onset of it will be very sudden and start off bad, it won't start off as a mild or barely noticeable pain and it won't be associated with other symptoms like a cold or flu (usually) to confuse it with. It'll be the sore throat by itself in most cases. Also, fevers over 101 degrees F because fevers under 101 are indicative of viral infections but not strep (WebMD).
I had strep for the first time last year and it was a horrible experience, very painful. The second day of symptoms I had to go to the emergency room, and it was thanksgiving. Needless to say I don't know how good my moms cooking was that year lol lol but I was very happy to be rid of it, it took several days and they prescribe pills that you have to painfully swallow (you'd think someone would've made it liquid given the symptoms...right??).
I hope its not strep but if it is, go to the doctor if you can get an early enough appointment, otherwise grab a blanket and head to the emergency room tonight.
P.S. tylenol might as well have sugar pills
2007-01-24 14:02:56 · answer #2 · answered by Ms Angie 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Trust me you will know if it is more than a sore throat....With strep you may have white spots on your toncles(spelling)....In my case I got strep the very first time last year....My toncles were covered in white and when swabed some actually came off...This happens only in severe cases...So if you do have strep go to the Dr. asap.And they will give you antibiotics...
2007-01-24 14:22:57 · answer #3 · answered by jill@doodle 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sore throat is usually due to a viral infection. Gargling with warm salty water or mouthwash can reduce the pain and inconvenience. More details and home remedies available at http://ailments.in/sorethroat.html
2007-01-25 22:28:33 · answer #4 · answered by Karunya 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check your throat for white spots. Usually you will run a fever, have headache, and upset stomach(occassionally) with strep also.
2007-01-24 13:55:04 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋