While an average sore throat is difficult to tolerate, strep throat is a far more serious health issue. A highly contagious illness caused by a bacterial infection, it’s critical that a person who is exhibiting symptoms of strep sees a medical physician as soon as possible. If left untreated, strep throat can easily lead to severe medical complications, including ear infections, tonsil abscesses, and in rare cases, even toxic shock syndrome. The following are a few common signs of strep throat that require urgent medical care.

4 Symptoms of Strep Throat That Merit Urgent Medical Care

1. High Fever

Fevers are your body’s way of fighting off infection. A common occurrence during strep infections, when a fever is too high, timely medical attention is a must. For adults, fevers higher than 103 degrees F should be checked out by a physician, especially if it persists at this temperature for more than 24 hours. 

2. Swollen Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes are glands that assist your immune system in battling against infections by generating protein particles to defend against germs. As protein particles attack an infection, your lymph nodes will swell. Located in your armpits, throat, beneath your chin, and near your groin area, if you feel especially achy or notice any swelling and tenderness around any of these areas—on top of feeling irritation in your throat—it’s possible your body is defending against a bacterial or viral infection. Though the swelling of lymph nodes isn’t exclusive to strep infections, it’s definitely a red flag that something is off-kilter in your body. 

3. Discolored Tonsils

Swollen, irritated, red tonsils are a common marker of sore throats. However, in the case of strep throat, it’s likely your tonsils and other areas near the back of your throat will develop white patches or streaks, as well. You may even experience problems swallowing. 

4. Headaches

While headaches may seem unrelated to strep throat, headaches are in fact a symptom of strep throat, especially if accompanied by nausea and vomiting. If you or someone you know is experiencing a headache in conjunction with any of the aforementioned symptoms, and these symptoms exceed 48 hours without showing any sign of improvement, it’s time to seek the aid of a medical physician.

If you suspect you’re coping with a possible strep infection, consult with the experienced, caring physicians at Robertsdale Urgent Care in Robertsdale, AL. The prestigious medical practice offers walk-in appointments as well as medical testing, including diagnostic strep screenings. For more information, call (251) 947-3591 for more information, or visit them online for more information on their services.