Is it strep throat or a virus?
Only a test can tell for sure, but some signs point one way or the other. Strep throat is more likely with:
- A sore throat that starts suddenly and hurts to swallow
- Fever
- Red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches
- Tender, swollen glands in the front of the neck
- No cough or runny nose
How is strep throat tested?
The doctor gently swabs the back of your throat. A rapid strep test gives a result during your visit. If the rapid test is negative but strep still seems likely, especially in children, a throat culture may be sent to a lab to be sure.
How is a sore throat treated?
If you have strep, antibiotics help you feel better sooner, lower the chance of spreading it and prevent rare complications. Take every dose, even after you feel better. Most people are no longer contagious after about 12 hours of antibiotics.
If a virus is the cause, antibiotics will not help. Rest, fluids, warm drinks or cold treats, salt-water gargles and over-the-counter pain relievers, if they are safe for you, can ease the pain while your body clears the infection.
Who gets strep throat?
Strep throat is most common in children ages 5 to 15, but adults get it too, especially parents of school-age children and people who work with children. Because we are a family practice, we can see everyone in the house who is sick.
What to expect at your visit
- Walk in Monday through Saturday, or call ahead for a time.
- We check your temperature and vital signs.
- Dr. Le looks at your throat and neck and does a rapid strep test if your symptoms fit.
- You leave with a treatment plan and know when you can go back to school or work.
Common questions about sore throat and strep throat
When should I see a doctor for a sore throat?
See a doctor if you have a sore throat with fever, swollen tonsils or neck glands and no cough, if it lasts longer than a week, or if it is severe. Westwood Family Medicine in Bluefield, Virginia welcomes walk-ins Monday through Saturday.
Can strep throat go away without antibiotics?
Strep throat can sometimes clear on its own, but untreated strep can spread to others and, rarely, lead to complications such as rheumatic fever or an abscess. That is why doctors treat confirmed strep with antibiotics.
How long is strep throat contagious?
People with strep throat are usually no longer contagious after taking antibiotics for about 12 hours. Without treatment, they can spread it for two to three weeks. Stay home from school or work until you have no fever and have taken antibiotics for at least 12 hours.
Learn more from trusted sources
This page is general health information, not medical advice for your situation. Talk with Dr. Le about your own care.