Strep Throat or Just a Sore Throat? When Testing Matters
A scratchy throat. Pain when swallowing. Maybe a fever.
Is it strep throat — or just another sore throat?
It isn't always easy to tell. Most sore throats are caused by viruses rather than the bacteria that causes strep. In fact, the CDC estimates that only about 3 in 10 children and 1 in 10 adults with a sore throat have strep throat.
But recognizing when strep could be the cause — and knowing when testing may be appropriate — matters.
First, What Is Strep Throat?
Strep throat is an infection of the throat and tonsils caused by a contagious bacteria --, commonly called group A strep.
It is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15, but anyone can get it. If it’s not treated, it can cause serious problems later, including life-threatening heart problems.
Fortunately, strep throat is easy to treat. But the treatment only works when the problem is strep, and not another kind of sore throat, so it is very important to be sure you’re treating the right thing.
Signs That a Sore Throat Could Be Strep
Strep throat often comes on quickly.
Common symptoms can include:
A sudden sore throat
Pain when swallowing
Fever
Red and swollen tonsils (they’re way in the back of the mouth near the throat)
White patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils
Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck
Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth
Children may also experience symptoms such as headache, stomach pain, nausea or vomiting. Some people with group A strep can develop a red rash associated with scarlet fever.
But here's what's important: having these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean someone has strep throat.
Other infections can cause similar symptoms.
Signs It May Be a Virus Instead
Certain symptoms are more strongly associated with a viral infection than with strep throat.
These include:
Cough
Runny nose
Hoarseness
Pink eye (also called Conjunctivitis)
When virus symptoms are present, a healthcare provider may determine that a test for group A strep isn't necessary.
When those telltale viral symptoms aren't present, however, the difference between viral and strep throat isn't always obvious from symptoms or a physical examination alone.
This is why testing matters!
What Does a Strep Test Involve?
Depending on where you live and the healthcare resources available, testing may include a rapid strep test, a throat culture (a swab at the back of the throat that get sent to a lab) or another diagnostic method.
A rapid strep test can provide results quickly. A throat culture takes longer, but is usually more accurate. A qualified healthcare professional can determine whether testing is appropriate and which method should be used.
Why Not Just Take Antibiotics to Be Safe?
Antibiotics don't treat viruses. Strep is from a bacteria. So if you take antibiotics for the wrong sore throat, it’s a complete waste. And it could lead to antibiotic resistance — when bacteria develop the ability to defeat the medicines designed to kill them.
When strep throat is confirmed, however, appropriate antibiotic treatment has important benefits. It can shorten the duration of symptoms, reduce the likelihood of spreading the bacteria to others and decrease the risk of complications.
The goal isn't to treat every sore throat with antibiotics.
The goal is to identify strep when it is present and treat it appropriately.
Why Identifying Strep Matters
For most people, strep throat is a treatable infection. But left untreated, a group A strep infection can lead to serious complications.
One of those complications is acute rheumatic fever, an inflammatory reaction that can affect the heart, joints, brain and skin. Rheumatic fever can lead to permanent damage to the heart valves, known as rheumatic heart disease. Both require long-term medical treatment.
The World Health Organization identifies recognition and treatment of group A strep as an important strategy to prevent rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease.
A sore throat may seem like a small thing. But if it’s strep, it could have much bigger implications.
So, When Should You Seek Care?
If you or your child has a sore throat, rash or other symptoms that concern you, contact a qualified healthcare provider. This is very important when symptoms are severe, persistent or consistent with strep throat.
A healthcare professional can evaluate the symptoms, consider risk factors and determine whether testing is appropriate.
Because when it comes to strep, guessing isn't the goal.
Recognize Strep. Treat Strep. Complete Treatment.
