Strep throat is one of the most common bacterial infections affecting the throat, particularly among children and young adults. Caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria, this infection can lead to severe throat pain and other uncomfortable symptoms if left untreated. Because it is contagious and can sometimes be mistaken for a viral infection like the common cold, understanding the key signs of strep throat can help you know when to seek medical care. Let’s break down the symptoms, how it spreads, and answer one of the most frequent questions: does strep throat actually cause coughing?
If you’re experiencing symptoms of strep throat, walk into AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill for same-day treatment. We’re open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm, and accept walk-in patients every day! Simply walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot online in advance using the button below.
What are the Symptoms of Strep Throat?
Strep throat is more than just a sore throat. It comes with a distinct set of symptoms. The most common symptoms of strep throat include:
- Severe sore throat that appears suddenly.
- Pain when swallowing.
- Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus.
- Fever (often 101°F / 38.3°C or higher)
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
- Headache and fatigue
Unlike viral infections such as the flu or common cold, strep throat rarely causes symptoms like a runny nose, cough, or sneezing. That is one of the main ways doctors distinguish it from other illnesses.
How Does Strep Throat Spread?
Strep throat is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets. This means you can catch it when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks near you. You may also get sick by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Because of its quick transmission, schools, daycare centers, and workplaces often see outbreaks. Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding sharing utensils, can help reduce the spread.
Does Strep Throat Cause Coughing?
Interestingly, strep throat typically does not cause coughing. In fact, a cough is considered a sign that your sore throat may be caused by a virus rather than strep bacteria.
This is an important distinction because viral infections do not require antibiotics, whereas strep throat does. If you have a sore throat accompanied by a persistent cough, congestion, or runny nose, it is more likely to be a cold or flu.
Doctors use this difference, along with a physical exam and sometimes a rapid strep test to determine whether you have strep throat or another type of throat infection.
When to Seek Urgent Care
Because strep throat can lead to complications such as rheumatic fever, kidney inflammation, and abscesses around the tonsils, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. You should seek urgent care if you experience:
- Sudden and severe sore throat with fever.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- White patches on the tonsils.
- A rash, known as scarlet fever.
- No improvement after a couple of days.
Urgent care centers can quickly perform a rapid strep test and, if positive, prescribe antibiotics that help you feel better within 24 to 48 hours. Early treatment not only shortens recovery time but also prevents spreading the infection to others.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill for Same-Day Strep Throat Treatment
Strep throat can be very uncomfortable, but knowing its key symptoms, and the fact that it usually does not cause coughing can help you distinguish it from viral illnesses. If you suspect strep throat, don’t wait it out. Seeking urgent medical care ensures you get a quick diagnosis and the right treatment, protecting both your health and those around you.
At AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill, our walk-in clinic is available 7 days a week to provide same-day care. We have a lab on-site for fast and convenient diagnostic testing. Based on the results, your medical provider will review the necessary treatment steps. We work with most medical insurance plans, and have affordable care for patients paying out of pocket. To learn more, give the clinic a call at (617) 582-2200.
