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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Sore Throat and Strep Throat?

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The main difference between a sore throat and strep throat lies in the cause. A sore throat is typically caused by viruses or allergens, whereas strep throat is caused by the bacteria Group A Streptococcus. Here are some differences in their symptoms and treatments:

Sore Throat (Viral Pharyngitis):

  • Common causes include colds, allergens, and other viruses.
  • Often accompanied by cold-like symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and congestion.
  • Tends to improve or disappear after the first day or two.
  • Treatment usually involves at-home remedies, as antibiotics are not effective against viral infections.

Strep Throat:

  • Caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria.
  • Often accompanied by fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, headache, red and swollen tonsils with white patches, and swollen lymph nodes.
  • Requires a strep test for accurate diagnosis, which can be done in a healthcare provider's office.
  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics to target the bacterial infection.

If you suspect you have strep throat, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Untreated strep throat can lead to complications such as scarlet fever or rheumatic fever.

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  • What is the Difference Between Sore Throat and Strep Throat?
  • Comparative Table: Sore Throat vs Strep Throat

    • Comparative Table: Sore Throat vs Strep Throat

    Here is a table summarizing the differences between sore throat and strep throat:

    Feature Sore Throat Strep Throat
    Causes Viral or bacterial infection Bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus (group A strep)
    Cough Often present Absent or very rare
    Symptoms Pain in the throat, pain or difficulty swallowing, red and swollen tonsils, swollen lymph nodes, headache, and stomach pain Pain in the neck and throat, fever over 100.4 degrees, swollen tonsils, white patches on the throat or tonsils, body aches, and enlarged lymph nodes
    Contagiousness Contagious if caused by a viral infection Contagious if not treated with antibiotics, incubation period is 1-5 days after exposure
    Treatment Antibiotics may not be needed, symptoms usually clear up on their own Antibiotics are needed to prevent complications, symptoms can last 2-3 weeks if untreated

    Please note that it can be difficult to differentiate between sore throat and strep throat based on symptoms alone. A healthcare provider can help diagnose the cause of your sore throat and recommend appropriate treatment.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.