Strep throat can be uncomfortable, but not every sore throat is caused by strep. Viral infections are a much more common cause of sore throats, especially when symptoms such as coughing, congestion, or a runny nose are also present. When group A strep bacteria cause an infection in the throat, treatment may be recommended to reduce symptoms and lower the risk of complications. This can leave many people wondering… what happens if strep throat goes untreated? Some cases of strep throat may improve on their own, but untreated strep can sometimes lead to complications. Knowing the symptoms and understanding when to get tested can help you get appropriate care.
For same-day strep throat testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer. Our center is open 7 days a week and never requires appointments. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
What Happens If You Don't Treat Strep Throat?
Strep throat can cause a sore throat, painful swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Without treatment, symptoms may continue and the infection can sometimes spread or lead to complications. Possible complications of untreated strep include:
- An infection or abscess around the tonsils
- Ear or sinus infections
- Scarlet fever
- Inflammation of the kidneys
- Rheumatic fever
These complications are not common, but they are an important reason to take suspected strep throat seriously.
Can Strep Throat Go Away On Its Own?
It is possible for strep throat symptoms to improve without antibiotics. However, untreated strep can remain contagious for longer, and treatment can reduce the duration of symptoms and the risk of certain complications.
If you have symptoms that could indicate strep, testing can help determine whether antibiotics are appropriate. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections, so they should not be taken unless a healthcare professional determines that a bacterial infection is present or otherwise recommends them.
How Do I Know If I Have Strep Throat?
Strep throat commonly causes the following symptoms:
- A sudden sore throat
- Pain when swallowing
- Fever
- Red or swollen tonsils
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- White patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils
- Small red spots on the roof of the mouth
Some people may also experience headache, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. One important clue is what isn't present. Cough, runny nose, hoarseness, and pink eye are more commonly associated with viral infections than strep throat. However, symptoms alone cannot reliably confirm strep. A rapid strep test or throat culture may be needed.
What Complications Can Untreated Strep Throat Cause?
Most people with strep throat do not develop serious complications, especially when the infection is appropriately evaluated and treated. However, untreated infections can occasionally lead to problems, including:
- Abscess Around the Tonsils: A pocket of pus can develop near the tonsils, causing severe throat pain and difficulty swallowing. You may also notice swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, a muffled voice, or pain that is worse on one side.
- Scarlet Fever: Strep bacteria can sometimes cause a red, rough-textured rash known as scarlet fever. The rash often starts on the chest or stomach and can spread to other parts of the body.
- Rheumatic Fever: In rare cases, an untreated group A strep infection can trigger rheumatic fever. This inflammatory condition can affect the heart, joints, skin, and nervous system.
- Kidney Inflammation: Strep infections can occasionally trigger inflammation in the kidneys. Signs can include dark or reddish-brown urine, swelling, decreased urination, or changes in blood pressure.
When Should I Get Tested For Strep?
Consider getting evaluated for strep throat if you develop symptoms such as a sudden sore throat, fever, painful swallowing, swollen lymph nodes, or white patches on your tonsils, especially if you do not have typical cold symptoms such as coughing or a runny nose. Urgent care can provide convenient testing and help determine whether your symptoms are caused by strep or another type of infection. If a test confirms strep throat, a healthcare provider can discuss the appropriate treatment with you.
Get Same-Day Strep Throat Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer in Denver, CO
While some cases of strep throat may eventually improve on their own, untreated strep can last longer, remain contagious, and in some cases lead to complications such as an abscess, scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, or kidney inflammation. Because strep throat can look similar to viral infections, the best way to determine whether you have it is through testing rather than symptoms alone. If you have a sudden painful sore throat with fever or swollen lymph nodes, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer. Our team is available 7 days a week to provide an evaluation and strep test. Getting the right diagnosis can help you receive the appropriate treatment. We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for self-pay patients. If you have any additional questions about strep treatment, or other services we provide, contact a member of our team directly at (303) 733-4000.