Top 5 Signs You Might Have Strep Throat

Painful, sore throat.  Swollen lymph nodes. Headache with fever.  You wonder, “Is this just a cold coming on or do I have Strep throat?”  The answer matters.  A sore throat associated with the common cold is typically caused by a virus and will go away on its own in a few days, as the cold starts to abate. Strep throat, on the other hand, is caused by bacteria, and your body will need help to fight it off.

So how do you know if it’s Strep or something else?

What is Strep throat?

Strep throat is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes.  Fortunately, it only accounts for a small portion of sore throat cases; more common causes are the common cold, allergies, or another type of viral infection. Strep throat is nothing to joke around with.  If left untreated, it can cause serious complications, such as rheumatic fever, which can lead to inflamed joints or even heart valve damage.  The only treatment is antibiotics, and as quickly as possible.

In the past, if Strep was suspected, testing was done but could take several days for results.  More recently, a Rapid Strep test has been developed, which gives almost instant results, often while you’re still in the doctor’s office.

While Strep, in general, is nothing to fool around with, there is greater concern if you go without treatment. Strep is very contagious and can impact those you come into contact with, especially those with compromised immune systems and women who are pregnant, as taking antibiotics will need to be carefully monitored during pregnancy.

Is It Strep or a Cold?

The top five signs you may have Strep throat include:

• Fever over 101 degrees
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or under the arms
• Throat pain that comes on suddenly
• Painful swallowing
• Headache

A common cold typically starts with a sore throat and painful swallowing that come on gradually, but they go away in a few days.  Fever, swollen lymph nodes, and sudden throat pain are all signs of a likely Strep infection and are not signs of a cold.  In addition, Strep throat is rarely accompanied by a cough, while cough is typical during a cold.

Treatment for Strep Throat

The first thing to do if you suspect Strep throat is to go see a health care professional.  They will perform a Rapid Strep test.  If you test positive, you will be prescribed antibiotics, typically either penicillin or amoxicillin.  Antibiotics will decrease the amount of time it takes to get better, will decrease your symptoms, prevent the Strep spreading to others, and will prevent serious complications from the bacteria. It’s important to stay home from work or school if you’ve been diagnosed with Strep throat because it is so easily transmitted.  You can return to your normal activities as soon as you no longer have a fever, and you’ve taken antibiotics for at least 24 hours.

Strep Throat Prevention

Strep throat is seen most often during the cold and flu season, typically between October and March.  To prevent getting strep, here are some easy steps to take that will save you from being infected:

• Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after being in public places.  Washing with soap and water for 20 seconds is best.
• Carry and use hand sanitizer.  Hand sanitizer does not replace hand washing but is a close second when looking at preventing infection.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably using a disposable tissue or into your arm.  Do not cough or sneeze into your hand, if at all possible.
• Make sure your children are using the above techniques when at school.

The cold and flu season is already upon us.  Knowing the difference between the common cold and Strep throat will help you stay healthy and keep you safe from any further medical issues.