A sore throat can make it difficult to swallow, talk, or even sleep. But one of the biggest questions people have is whether the pain is caused by a virus or strep throat, a bacterial infection. Knowing the difference is important because strep throat requires antibiotics, while viral sore throats do not. Understanding the symptoms and the types of testing available can help you identify the cause and get the right treatment quickly.
For same-day strep throat treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen. Our urgent care center is open 7 days a week and appointments aren’t required! Walk in or plan your visit in advance below.
Testing for a Virus
Viral sore throats are the most common and are often caused by cold or flu viruses. Doctors usually diagnose a viral infection through:
- Physical examination - looking at the throat for redness, swelling, or postnasal drip.
- Symptom review - viral infections often come with a cough, runny nose, hoarseness, or congestion.
- Flu or COVID-19 tests - in cases where symptoms suggest these viruses.
Most viral sore throats do not require lab testing because the symptoms clearly point to a virus, and treatment focuses on rest and symptom relief.
Testing for Strep
Strep throat is caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria and requires antibiotics. Testing includes:
- Rapid strep test - provides results in minutes by detecting strep bacteria from a throat swab.
- Throat culture - a more accurate test that takes 24–48 hours to confirm infection.
- Physical signs - swollen tonsils with white spots, fever, and absence of a cough may prompt testing.
If a rapid test is negative but symptoms strongly suggest strep, a doctor may order a culture for confirmation.
Symptoms: Viral Sore Throat vs. Strep Throat
Viral Sore Throat Symptoms
- Cough
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Hoarse voice
- Mild fever
- Gradual onset of symptoms
Strep Throat Symptoms
- Sudden severe sore throat
- High fever
- Painful swallowing
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Red or white patches on the tonsils
- No cough or cold symptoms
The absence of typical cold symptoms and the presence of significant throat pain often point toward strep.
Tips For Soothing the Pain
To relieve sore throat discomfort:
- Drink warm fluids like tea or broth
- Use throat lozenges
- Gargle warm salt water
- Use a cool-mist humidifier
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers if recommended
These remedies help with both viral and bacterial sore throats.
When to Visit Urgent Care
Visit urgent care if:
- Your sore throat lasts more than 3 days without improvement.
- You have a high fever or recurring fever.
- You experience severe pain when swallowing.
- There are white patches, swelling, or signs of pus in the throat.
- You have difficulty breathing, speaking, or opening your mouth.
- You suspect strep throat and need rapid testing.
- You are dehydrated because it hurts too much to swallow.
- Symptoms return after finishing antibiotics.
- A child has drooling, difficulty swallowing, or signs of dehydration.
Urgent care can provide quick testing, accurate diagnosis, and immediate treatment, preventing complications and helping you feel better faster.
Get Walk-In Strep Throat Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen
If you or a loved one is experiencing a sore throat, don’t hesitate to seek care. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen for a same-day evaluation and treatment plan. Early diagnosis and treatment can ensure a quicker recovery and prevent complications. No appointments are required! Most insurance plans are accepted and we offer cost-effective self-pay rates. If you have any additional questions about our services, please contact us directly at (732) 583-5100.
