If you have a sore throat that came out of nowhere that’s affecting your ability to swallow, you may have strep throat, which is a bacterial infection. Without treatment, strep throat can lead to a more serious infection that can affect your kidneys or heart. The experienced team at Low Testosterone & Weight Loss Center, with a location in Allen, Texas, can run a simple test to determine if your sore throat is due to a strep infection and provide you with the right treatment. For an evaluation of your sore throat, call the office today or book an appointment online.

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What is strep throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus. It’s most often seen in children, although adults can develop the infection too.

The Streptococcal bacteria is very contagious and is spread through droplets in the air when someone with the infection coughs or sneezes. You can also pick up the infection by sharing food with an infected person or touching an object with the germ and then touching your face.

What are the symptoms of strep throat?

Severe throat pain that develops quickly is the most common symptom of strep throat. Other symptoms include:

  • Pain when you swallow
  • Tiny red dots on the back of the throat or tonsils
  • Swollen tonsils or lymph nodes
  • White patches or mucus on the tonsils
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Body aches
  • Nausea or vomiting

You may also develop a rash, which is referred to as scarlet fever.

When should I get a strep throat test?

If you’re experiencing any of the common symptoms of strep throat, you should contact the specialists at Low Testosterone & Weight Loss Center for a strep test. While the symptoms may indicate you have a viral infection and not a bacterial infection, it’s important to get tested so you can get the most appropriate treatment.

Without treatment, strep throat can lead to more serious health issues, such as kidney inflammation or joint pain. The infection can also damage your heart valves.

The strep test is a rapid test that can provide you with results in about 15 minutes. During the test, your specialist takes a swab from the back of your throat and tests the sample for group A Streptococcus.

What if my strep test is positive?

If your strep test is positive, your specialist prescribes antibiotics to clear up the infection. You should start to feel more like your usual self within a day or two after starting your medication, but be sure to complete the full dose of your antibiotic as prescribed. You’re no longer contagious about 24 hours after you start the antibiotic.

During your recovery, be sure to drink plenty of fluids, eat soothing foods, and get lots of rest to help your body get better faster. You may also find that over-the-counter pain relievers help reduce your discomfort.

A sore throat can develop from a viral or bacterial infection. For management of your throat pain and a strep test, call Low Testosterone & Weight Loss Center today or schedule an appointment online.