Winter comes with stormy weather — and sore throats. Is it just a sore throat or something worse, like a strep infection? Find out how to tell the difference and what to do.
Contributed by Michael H. Weber, MD | Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose, Throat)
“Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes throat pain and inflammation,” says Michael Weber, MD, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) physician with MetroHealth. “And it’s more common in kids than adults. Because it’s highly contagious, it can spread quickly in classrooms or daycares.”
Common seasonal injuries and health concerns:
Classic symptoms include:
- Painful sore throat
- Fever
- Lumps or bumps in the neck
- Tonsils that are red and swollen
- White spots on the tonsils
- Rash (strep throat with a rash is called scarlet fever)
Here’s the telltale sign: If you or your child’s sore throat comes with cold-like symptoms, such as runny nose, cough, aches, and sneezing, it’s probably not strep. You likely have a winter cold, which is viral — not bacterial.
A primary care provider, your child’s pediatrician or a caregiver at a MetroHealth Express Care or pediatric walk-in location can perform a rapid strep test, which is a simple swab of the throat. A positive rapid test is usually a good indicator, but your provider may also send the swab to a lab to be sure.
- Antibiotics help most people feel better right away, but it’s important to take them as directed and finish the prescription – don’t stop taking them just because you or your child is feeling better. Kids can go back to school after 24 hours, and you can give your child an over-the-counter pain reliever to reduce fever if they’re feeling bad.
- Good hygiene is also important: Wash hands often and throw away toothbrushes, including those that are kept close to the sick person’s toothbrush.
- Quick treatment is important. Though it’s possible the infection will clear on its own, it’s also possible for an untreated infection to lead to something more serious, such as:
- Kidney problems
- Rheumatic fever (which can cause heart failure)
- Tonsil abscess
What to do if you get strep often
Some kids get frequent strep infections and then grow out of it. Your pediatrician may refer you to an ENT to talk about tonsillectomy (removing the tonsils) if your child has had:
- Seven strep infections in one year.
- Five strep infections for two consecutive years
- Three strep infections for three years
Even if you want to avoid removing the tonsils, it’s always worth a conversation with an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist, especially if strep is interfering in your or your child’s life. For more information, or to schedule an appointment with an ENT, call 216-778-4391.
Need to get tested for strep throat? You have options:
To make an appointment with a primary care provider for adults and children, call 216-MY-METRO
Visit one of our Pediatric Walk-In Clinics
Visit one of our Express Care locations
