That scratchy feeling in your throat might start off mild, but it can quickly turn into something that makes eating, talking, and even sleeping uncomfortable. In Gastonia, sore throats are one of the most common reasons people seek urgent care, especially during colder months or when seasonal illnesses are circulating through schools, workplaces, and households. 

The challenge is figuring out what’s causing it. Is your sore throat part of a simple cold, or could it be a bacterial infection like strep throat? When symptoms arise while shopping at Target or Hobby Lobby and you’re trying to push through your day, knowing the difference can help you decide whether home care is enough or if it’s time to visit AFC Gastonia. 

Sore Throat From a Cold 

Most sore throats are caused by viral infections, including the common cold. These tend to develop gradually and are often accompanied by other cold symptoms, such as: 

• Runny or stuffy nose 

• Sneezing 

• Cough 

• Hoarseness 

• Mild fatigue 

• Low-grade fever 

Cold-related sore throats usually improve within a few days with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter symptom relief. Because they’re viral, antibiotics won’t help speed recovery. 

Signs Your Sore Throat Could Be Strep 

Strep throat is caused by a bacterial infection and often comes on suddenly with more intense symptoms. Common signs include: 

• Severe throat pain without a cough 

• Painful swallowing 

• Fever 

• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck 

• Red or swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches 

• Headache or stomach pain, especially in children 

Unlike a cold, strep throat typically does not cause a runny nose or cough. 

Why Testing Matters 

Because cold and strep symptoms can overlap, testing is the only reliable way to confirm strep throat. A rapid strep test can often provide answers during your visit. If strep is diagnosed, antibiotics are usually prescribed to shorten symptoms, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others. 

When to Visit Urgent Care 

You should consider visiting AFC Gastonia if you experience: 

• A sore throat lasting more than a few days 

• High or persistent fever 

• Severe throat pain or difficulty swallowing 

• Swollen glands or visible white patches in the throat 

• Symptoms that worsen instead of improve 

Getting evaluated promptly helps ensure you receive the right treatment as soon as possible. 

What You Can Do at Home 

While keeping an eye on your symptoms, supportive care can help ease discomfort: 

• Drink plenty of fluids 

• Use throat lozenges or warm saltwater gargles 

• Take pain relievers or fever reducers as directed 

• Rest your voice and your body 

If symptoms improve quickly, home care may be all you need. If they linger or worsen, it’s worth getting checked. 

How AFC Gastonia Can Help 

A sore throat doesn’t always mean strep but ignoring persistent or worsening symptoms can delay proper care. If you’re unsure whether your sore throat is due to a cold or something more serious, our experienced AFC providers at AFC Gastonia are here to help. With on-site testing, thorough evaluations, and personalized treatment plans, we’ll help you get answers and feel better faster so you can get back to your normal routine.