Should I Be Concerned About Getting Strep Throat?

Did you know? According to the CDC, between 11,000 and 24,000 Americans fall ill to strep throat every year. Although strep throat is more common among children between the ages of 5 and 15, you can get it no matter your age.

To learn more about strep throat and how to stay away from it, check out the tips and info that our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. team shares below.

What Causes Strep Throat?

Strep throat is caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes, or group A Streptococcus (more commonly known as group A strep). The most common way to get strep throat is by touching your eyes, nose or mouth after being exposed to these bacteria.

Strep throat can also be spread by coughing, sneezing and sharing food or drink with someone who’s infected. If you aren’t sure whether you have strep throat, we’ve listed some of its common symptoms below.

Common Symptoms of Strep Throat

  • 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

Is It Possible to Just Have a Sore Throat?

It’s possible, but be on the lookout for the presence of a cough. While a sore throat is a common symptom of both strep throat and a cold virus, a cough doesn’t occur in strep throat cases.

If you have a painful sore throat without a cough, visit your doctor. If your doctor suspects strep throat, he or she will likely perform a rapid strep test to confirm his or her diagnosis. Strep tests provide typically reliable results and aren’t usually painful.

  • Runny nose
  • Cough
  • Red or watery eyes
  • Sneezing

Strep throat can cause lots of throat discomfort and is quite contagious. If you suspect that you have strep throat, our team at AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. is here for you, so don’t hesitate to visit us!