Strep Throat Specialist

What causes strep throat?

Strep throat is a contagious condition caused by bacteria, specifically Streptococcus pyogenes. Streptococcus bacteria is most commonly spread amongst school-age children, but can also spread to teens, adults, and seniors.

Because Streptococcus bacteria is highly contagious, it’s important that you receive a proper diagnosis so you can begin treatment as soon as possible.

How is strep throat diagnosed?

At the Urgent Care Center of Arlington, the experienced medical team diagnoses strep throat using rapid antigen testing.

This highly efficient test is performed on-site and allows your physician to determine your condition in minutes. The test is performed using a throat swab that is then tested for the presence of streptococcus bacteria.

What are the symptoms of strep throat?

If you suspect you’ve been exposed to streptococcus bacteria, there are a number of symptoms you might experience.

Since strep throat is a bacterial infection that lives in the throat, the symptoms vary depending on the severity of the infection and are primarily restricted to the throat and tonsils.

Some of the symptoms of strep throat include:

• Throat pain
• Swollen throat
• White patches in your throat and tonsils
• Red spots on the roof of your mouth
• Nausea
• Painful swallowing
• Fever
• Headache

If left untreated, it’s possible for streptococcus bacteria to spread to other areas of your body such as your sinuses, ears, and blood. To avoid further complications caused by streptococcus bacteria, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible.

How is strep throat treated?

Like many other forms of bacterial infections, strep throat is treated using antibiotics. Once the team determines your condition, you’ll be prescribed the appropriate antibiotics for an effective and timely recovery.

If taken within 48 hours of the onset of the illness, antibiotics can greatly reduce the length of your symptoms. Once treatment begins, you’ll remain contagious for another 24 hours. In addition to antibiotics, many patients opt for over-the-counter pain relievers to help reduce and cope with symptoms.

To find out if you’ve been infected with streptococcus bacteria, book an appointment online or by phone or visit Urgent Care Center of Arlington today.