Professional family doctors see strep throat fairly often. It’s painful and very contagious if not treated properly; it can also lead to other more serious illnesses. But, how can you be sure its strep throat rather than a sore throat, and what should you do about it if it is strep?

How to Care for Suspected Strep Throat

1. Look for the Symptoms

What may start as a simple sore throat may be something more serious. A sore throat will clear up on its own in a few days. Within three or so days, those with strep throat will start to see some other symptoms such as a fever, headaches, lower stomach pain, rash, loss of appetite, and nausea. Another telltale sign is red and white patches in the throat.

2. Go to See a Family Doctor

The only way to diagnose strep throat is through a physician. They will likely run a rapid strep test in the office by using a cotton swab to get a sample of the fluids near the back of the throat. These fluids are tested within five minutes, and you are given a result.

3. Take Any Medicine Your Family Doctor Prescribes

Your family doctor will probably prescribe an antibiotic to you or your child to be taken for about 10 days. After the first 24 hours on this, fevers should go away, and you won’t be contagious anymore. Other symptoms should diminish over the next two to three days. It is important to continue to take the medication for the full recommended time even if you are feeling better. Bacteria could still be present in the throat, causing symptoms to return when the illness isn’t treated properly.

4. Stay Hydrated

You or your child will need plenty of liquids, especially if you have a fever. Water or ginger ale is always a good idea. However, for sore throats, warm liquids such as hot chocolate, sweetened tea, or broth is very soothing. Drinks such as orange and grapefruit juice, lemonade, and other acidic beverages can irritate the throat further; so, it’s best to avoid these.

5. Prevent the Spread of Strep Throat

Strep throat is very contagious. Those who have it should stay home from work or school until they have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours and no longer have a fever. Change out your toothbrush after antibiotics have been started. Keep all dishes, foods, napkins, towels, drinks, and handkerchiefs separate from everyone else’s, and wash them immediately after use until it is no longer contagious.

If you are looking for a caring and professional family doctor and live in the greater Lexington, NC, area, then the hunt is over. They can treat strep throat as well as various other illnesses that arise throughout the year. Learn how Lexington Family Physicians can serve you and your family by calling them today at (336) 249-3329 or visiting their website.