How Long Does Strep Throat Last?

Is there anything worse than cold symptoms during the heat of summer? We don’t think so—it can be just plain awful.

You don’t want to be stuck inside while the weather is gorgeous in Fountain City, so if you’re experiencing a sore throat, take steps to get back to feeling your best!

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat, which occurs often in children ages 5 to 15 but can occur at any age, is a bacterial infection of the throat caused by streptococcus pyrogens.

The condition is extremely contagious, so if you believe you or a loved one are experiencing strep throat, it’s important to seek prompt medical care. Not sure whether you have strep throat? Consider your symptoms.

Symptoms of Strep Throat

  • Body aches
  • Chills
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Rashes
  • Red, swollen tonsils
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Vomiting

How Long Does Strep Throat Last?

With proper treatment, including an antibiotic, strep throat can cleared up within two to five days. That’s great news, especially when there is so much more summer fun to be had!

While you wait for your antibiotic to rid your body of the infection, you can also take steps to help relieve the ache.

Relief for Strep Throat

  • Drink cold liquids, such as water with lemon and sports drinks.
  • Drink warm liquids like hot tea.
  • Gargle with warm salt water.
  • Try over-the-counter lozenges and other OTC products.
  • Use a cool-mist humidifier.

Our in-house laboratory services allow the medical team at AFC Urgent Care Fountain City to test and diagnose strep throat during your office visit! We’ll get you out the door fast and on the road to recovery.