Sore and Strep Throat

Common Causes of a Sore Throat

Most sore throats are caused by viral infections such as:

• The common cold (rhinovirus)

• The flu (influenza)

• Other upper respiratory infections

Other causes include:

• Bacterial infections (including strep throat)

• Seasonal allergies

• Irritation from dry air, smoke, or pollutants

People with weakened immune systems may be more prone to frequent sore throats. Click here to learn more about the illnesses we treat at our walk-in clinics. 

Symptoms of a Sore Throat

Sore throat symptoms vary depending on the cause. You may experience:

• Pain, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat

• Pain when swallowing

• Swollen tonsils or red throat

• Fever or chills

• Fatigue and headache

• Loss of appetite or nausea

• Rash (in some cases)

If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening, it’s best to seek medical evaluation.

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus. It’s contagious and spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact. Strep is most common among children, but anyone can get it. Unlike viral sore throats, strep throat requires antibiotics to prevent complications.

Signs of strep throat include:

• Sudden, severe sore throat

• Pain when swallowing

• Fever

• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

• White patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils

• Sometimes a red rash (scarlet fever)

How We Diagnose & Treat Sore Throat and Strep

At Urgent Medical Center, our providers can quickly evaluate your symptoms and determine the cause.

Diagnosis may include:

• Physical exam

• Rapid strep test (results in minutes)

• Throat culture (if needed)

Treatment options:

• For viral sore throat: symptom relief with lozenges, saltwater gargles, anti-inflammatory medications, rest, and hydration.

• For strep throat (bacterial): prescription antibiotics, plus supportive care to relieve discomfort.

• Preventive care, including flu shots, to reduce risk of viral sore throats.

Most patients begin feeling better within a few days of starting treatment.

When to Seek Urgent Care

Prompt care helps relieve symptoms faster and prevents complications like sinus infections, ear infections, or more serious illness. Come see us if you have:

• A sore throat lasting more than a few days

• High fever or chills

• Difficulty swallowing or breathing

• White patches on the tonsils

• Swollen, painful lymph nodes

• A spreading rash

• Recurrent sore throats or frequent infections

Why choose us?

Our clinics are provider-owned. That means you get lower costs, no surprise billing, and more personal, attentive care from a team that puts patients first (click here to learn more).

We also offer:

• Walk-in visits (no appointment necessary)
• Care for adults & children (ages 2+)
• On-site X-rays, lab tests & vaccinations
• Bilingual Staff (English and Spanish)
• Weekend & extended hours
• All major insurance accepted
• Ample Parking

Don’t let a sore throat slow you down – walk in today for quick testing and treatment.