Strep Throat or Sore Throat: How to Tell the Difference

February 2, 2023

Your throat starts to hurt, and you find it difficult to swallow. Is it a sore throat, or is there a more serious issue? Anyone, especially children, can have a sore throat or strep throat, which are quite common conditions. Read on to learn which is which and how to distinguish between the two.

What Is Strep Throat?

A bacterial infection of the throat is called strep throat. It is brought on by the bacteria named Group A Streptococcus (group A strep). This throat infection might start out slowly and get worse within a day or two. Strep throat also spreads rapidly and can lead to serious problems if left untreated. The good news is that treatment is simple.

What Is a Sore Throat?

A viral or bacterial infection of the throat causes a sore throat. Pharyngitis is the medical term for sore throat because the back of the throat, or the pharynx, is affected. Viral infections of the throat account for about 90% of cases. A sore throat can also occur on its own or with other conditions.

Symptoms of a Sore Throat and Strep Throat

Coughing, runny nose, or hoarseness that alters voice quality are signs of a sore throat. In some cases, conjunctivitis or pink eye symptoms may also be present. The majority of people's symptoms go away in a week or two, although they're typically not severe and don't come with a high fever.

The signs of strep throat are enlarged tonsils, swollen lymph nodes, a fever of more than 101°F (38°C), and pain when swallowing.

Causes of a Sore Throat and Strep Throat

Viruses are the most common cause of a sore throat, including rhinoviruses or a respiratory syncytial virus. These viruses can cause other symptoms, such as earaches, a cold, sinus infections, and bronchitis.

The bacteria group A Streptococcus is the most typical cause of strep throat.

How Is a Strep Throat Test Done?

A throat swab is used in a throat culture or strep test to check for the presence of group A streptococcus bacteria. These microbes can also result in other infections (including scarlet fever, abscesses, and pneumonia).

A sample taken from the back of the throat is placed on a specific plate (culture) so that germs can grow there in a laboratory. The culture will be negative, and the patient won't have strep throat, if the germs don't develop.

What Are the Remedies for a Sore Throat?

After pharyngitis has been diagnosed, a patient's healthcare professional may suggest some of the following at-home treatments in addition to any necessary drugs:

● gargle with warm salt water (1 to 5 salt-to-water ratio).

● suck on medicated throat lozenges

● drink warm liquids like a broth soup or honey-lemon tea

● create a mist using a humidifier

● try throat sprays containing phenol

For related body aches and pains, some patients opt to take over-the-counter pain relievers. Consult with your healthcare professional about the safety of the medications for your condition.

Dr. Elizabeth Burckardt is an otolaryngologist with expertise in the surgical and non-surgical management of voice, airway, and swallowing issues. She is well-versed in using surgery or dilatation, as necessary, to address subglottic stenosis. Contact her for more information on effectively treating subglottic stenosis or other voice-related issues.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Is Vocal Cord Dysplasia a Cancer?

July 25, 2023

Vocal Cord Dysplasia is a condition that affects the vocal cords caused by abnormal cell growth. It can cause various voice problems, such as a weak or breathy voice. By understanding the differences, individuals can gain a sense of reassurance and make informed decisions about their health.

What Causes Vocal Strain?

May 8, 2023

We communicate through speech almost constantly. Whether it be in the workplace, at home, or even out with friends, we rely heavily on our voices to convey our thoughts and emotions. However, sometimes we can experience vocal strain when speaking, leaving us feeling hoarse and making it difficult for us to communicate effectively. But what exactly causes vocal strain? In the following blog, we will delve into the primary causes of vocal fatigue and offer practical advice on how to avoid it. Let's dive in and discover what's behind this common issue.

An office manager having a nagging cough

5 Causes of Chronic Coughing

January 23, 2023

Chronic cough is defined as one that lasts for more than eight weeks in adults and four weeks in children. It's one of the most common reasons for doctor's appointments. In fact, a chronic cough affects 11% of the population in the United States. A chronic cough might disrupt your sleep and leave you weary. Severe coughing can result in vomiting, lightheadedness, and even rib fractures. Chronic cough is not an illness in and of itself. It's a symptom of something else wrong with your body.

A man holding his chest while coughing non-stop

What Are the Symptoms of Subglottic Stenosis?

By Dr. Elizabeth Burckardt • December 8, 2022

A condition known as subglottic stenosis causes the subglottis (a section of the windpipe located right below the vocal cords), to narrow. Inflammation and fibrosis (scar tissue) are typically present in the area.

A beautiful young lady suffering from Vocal trauma

What Causes Nodules on Your Vocal Cords?

November 22, 2022

Vocal nodules are rough, noncancerous growths on your vocal cords. They range in size from a pinhead to a pea. Vocal cord nodules, often known as singer's nodules or “nodes”, are brought on by excessive or improper use of the voice over time. These callous-like growths form in the midpoint of the vocal folds. Under a microscope, these nodules resemble calluses and can have aberrant blood vessels connected to them. Vocal cord nodules can affect both men and women. However, they are more common in women between 15 and 50.

Understanding What Causes Posterior Glottic Stenosis

September 27, 2022

Posterior Glottic Stenosis (PGS) is a condition where the vocal cords are fixed in a midline position due to scar tissue. This causes the glottic airway to narrow down significantly and limits vocal fold abduction and adduction. People with this condition should get treated at the earliest since its effects can be potentially fatal. Here is more information on PGS, its symptoms, causes, and possible treatment options.

What is the Purpose of a Stroboscopy Test?

August 30, 2022

A stroboscopy test is one used to help discover what might be causing dysphonic issues—that is, issues that make your voice sound or work unlike how it normally does. Most might not have heard of a stroboscopy test before, and therefore might not be sure what to expect if their doctor suggests getting one done. As such, let us explain what a stroboscopy test is, what to expect when going for it, why your doctor might suggest the test, and look a little more closely at what the purpose of the test is.

Woman having difficulty breathing due to esophageal stricture

What Causes an Esophageal Stricture?

August 4, 2022

An esophageal stricture is the abnormal narrowing or tightening of the esophagus. When the esophagus contracts, it becomes difficult for food to pass through to the stomach. If food is stuck in the esophagus, it could lead to abdominal or chest pain.

How Are Vocal Cord Polyps Treated?

June 28, 2022

The overuse or misuse of your voice may lead to inflammatory changes in the vocal folds. This may even happen after a single episode of abuse of your vocal cords, like cheering at a sports event or even sneezing!

A young woman experiencing Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

Everything You Need to Know about Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

June 3, 2022

Laryngopharyngeal reflux is a medical condition where acid or pepsin from your stomach travels up your esophagus and enters your throat, voice box, and nasal passages. When left untreated, LPR can cause ulcers on your vocal cords, lead to chronic cough, and worsen your asthma or bronchitis. While anyone can be diagnosed with LPR, you’re more likely to get it as you age. Certain diet and lifestyle choices, such as excessive drinking or tobacco use, overstressing, being overweight, or wearing binding clothing, etc., can make you more vulnerable to LPR.