Waking up with a scratchy, painful throat makes it hard to swallow and ruins your morning. While many people immediately worry about strep throat, most sore throats are actually caused by common viruses that go away on their own. Knowing what to look for can help you decide if you need to see a doctor.
At Mansfield Urgent Care & Family Medicine in Mansfield, Texas, Dr. Jeffrey Fisher helps you get the right diagnosis and fast relief. We offer specialized testing and treatment for strep throat and flu to ensure you receive the correct care. Our on-site laboratory allows us to process tests quickly so you don't have to wait for answers.
Knowing the cause of your sore throat is essential because antibiotics only treat bacterial infections, not viral ones. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only about 10 percent of adults with a sore throat actually have strep throat. Despite this low number, many adults receive unnecessary antibiotics, which can contribute to drug resistance.
In fact, the American Academy of Family Physicians notes that 60 percent or more of adult patients presenting with a sore throat receive unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions. Taking these medications when you have a virus won't help you recover and can cause unwanted side effects. It's always best to get a professional diagnosis before starting any treatment.
How do you know if your symptoms require medical attention? While a physical exam is the only way to be sure, certain symptoms can help you tell the difference. Paying attention to how your symptoms develop can guide your next steps.
One common myth is that strep throat always comes with a bad cough and a runny nose. The presence of a cough strongly suggests a viral illness, whereas true strep throat typically develops without a cough. If you're coughing and sneezing, you're likely dealing with a cold virus.
If you have strep throat, you're more likely to experience a sudden, severe sore throat, pain when swallowing, and a fever. You might also notice red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks. Some people also experience tiny red spots on the roof of their mouth.
If your sore throat is mild and accompanied by a cough or congestion, it's likely a virus. These illnesses usually resolve naturally within five to seven days with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, you should still monitor your symptoms closely in case they worsen.
If you have a sudden fever, severe pain, or difficulty swallowing, it's time to get tested. We can perform a rapid test at our urgent care clinic to provide results in minutes. Please contact our office to schedule an appointment or walk in for care today.
