Strep throat is a bacterial infection affecting the throat. It is caused by a bacterium known as Group A Streptococcus and can present with several symptoms. The most common symptoms are a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and a high fever of 101 F or higher.
Other possible strep throat symptoms include:
- a headache
- chills
- loss of appetite
- pain or difficulty swallowing
- a pressure in the ears
- red, swollen tonsils or uvula
- pinpoint red dots at the back of the mouth
- rash
- nausea, with or without vomiting
- body aches (including joint pain)
Can I Wait for My Primary Care Provider?
If you or your child are experiencing the symptoms of strep throat it is highly recommended you be seen by your primary care physician. Mild to moderate cases can be waited out until your doctor’s office has opened, but there are some instances in which you will not want to wait (described below).
Strep is diagnosed via a throat swab known as a rapid strep test. If diagnosed the most common course of treatment is antibiotics. Depending upon the amount of swelling present your doctor may also prescribe you corticosteroids.
When to go to Urgent Care
While it is normally fine to wait for your primary care provider when presenting with strep throat symptoms there are times when it is best to be seen at your local Urgent Care Center instead.
If you or your child presents with any of the following it is advisable to be seen now instead of waiting.
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- A fever over 102 in children under six
- Any fever which does not respond to medication
- Any symptoms in a child under the age of two
- A severe sore throat which does not begin getting better after two days, or
- A sore throat which steadily gets worse instead of improving
- A sore throat accompanied by severe pain or pressure in the ears
- Heart palpitations
- Extreme listlessness or fatigue (especially in children)
At MD Express Urgent Care, we are open 7 days a week for you! No appointment is necessary and the doctor is always in!
At Riverside Health, we're dedicated to compassionate, collaborative care. We provide a wide range of services, from childbirth to end-of-life care, delivering over 2 million services each year. Our integrated network allows us to support you seamlessly through health, illness, recovery, and wellness. With top clinicians and advanced technology, we’re here for you at convenient locations close to home and work. Visit riversideonline.com.
If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:
If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.
Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.
Virtual Clinic – Schedule through MyChart or click Here to learn more about Primary Care On Demand.
MD Express Urgent Care – Click Here to find a location near you for after-hours care or when your primary care provider is busy.
If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368
