How Common Is Strep Throat Right Now?

A sore throat can be cause for concern and sometimes can mean that you have strep throat; however, strep is more common among children than it is in adults. According to the CDC, up to three in 10 children with a sore throat have strep throat, which is more than adults as about one in 10 adults with a sore throat actually have strep.

So, if you get a sore throat, does that mean you have strep throat? Are they the same? Our team at AFC Urgent Care Midtown has the answers, so keep reading!

What Causes a Sore Throat?

Sore throats are most commonly caused by allergens, like dust or pollen, viral infections and bacterial infections.

A sore throat, which is technically called pharyngitis, can often be the beginning of something more serious, such as strep throat, which is specifically known as Streptococcal Pharyngitis. If you aren’t sure of the cause of your sore throat, there are things you can do at home to help alleviate the pain. We’ve listed them below.

At-Home Treatments for a Sore Throat

  • Warm salt water gargles
  • Warm liquids, such as honey and lemon tea
  • Warm or cool mist using a humidifier
  • Medicated throat lozenges
  • Throat sprays containing phenol

How Am I Supposed to Know If I Have Strep Throat?

A sore throat is one of the most common and first symptoms of strep throat. However, if you experience a sore throat along with a cough, you likely don’t have strep throat.

If you experience any of the symptoms that we’ve listed below alongside your sore throat, you may have strep throat, and you should visit your doctor within 48 hours to get the necessary treatment. If your doctor does believe you have strep, he or she will likely perform a rapid strep test to confirm his or her diagnosis.

Common Strep Throat Symptoms

  • A sudden fever, especially if it’s 101˚F or higher
  • A sore, red throat with white patches
  • A headache
  • Chills
  • A loss of appetite
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
  • Trouble swallowing

Strep throat is a common infection, but it can cause more health complications if not taken care of promptly! If you believe you have strep, don’t wait to visit us at AFC Urgent Care Midtown to get the care you need.