How Do You Know If You Have Strep Throat?

07/30/2024

Are you suddenly feeling pain in your throat when you swallow? You might be dealing with strep throat, a common bacterial infection that sends around 5.2 million people to the doctor each year in the U.S. Let’s break down what strep throat is, how to recognize its symptoms, and when it’s time to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor.

What is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is an infection that mainly affects your throat and tonsils. It’s caused by a type of bacteria called Group A Streptococcus. This bacteria spreads easily, especially through tiny droplets in the air when someone who is infected coughs or sneezes. You can also catch it by sharing food or drinks with someone who has the infection.

Common Symptoms of Strep Throat

Here are some signs that you might have strep throat:

severe sore throat
red and swollen tonsils
white patches or streaks
fever
headache and body aches
difficulty swallowing
swollen lymph nodes

How to Tell if It’s Strep Throat or Something Else

Unlike viral sore throats, which usually come with symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, strep throat typically does not have these signs. If you have a persistent sore throat without those extra symptoms, strep throat could be the culprit.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you have any of the symptoms above—especially a severe sore throat along with a fever, or if you’re having trouble breathing or swallowing—it’s time to see your ENT doctor.

Diagnostic Tests for Strep Throat

To confirm if you have strep throat, doctors usually perform one of two tests:

Rapid Strep Test: This quick test involves swabbing the back of your throat to check for strep bacteria.
Throat Culture Test: If the rapid test isn’t conclusive, a throat culture may be done. This test takes longer but is highly accurate in detecting strep bacteria.

During your visit, your doctor will examine your throat and may take a sample for testing.

Treatment Options

If you are diagnosed with strep throat, treatment typically involves antibiotics to help clear the infection. It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics to ensure the bacteria is entirely eliminated and to prevent complications.

Here are some home care tips to help you feel better:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your throat moist.
Get Plenty of Rest: Your body needs rest to recover.
Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: These can help ease discomfort and reduce fever.

If you have more questions about strep throat or need assistance, feel free to contact our office at 732-280-7855. Coastal Ear, Nose, and Throat has experienced doctors ready to help you. We offer convenient locations in Neptune, Manahawkin, and Holmdel, New Jersey, where you can receive top-quality medical care.

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