When you're feeling under the weather, it can be challenging to distinguish between the symptoms of strep throat and seasonal allergies. Both conditions can cause sore throats, fatigue, and discomfort, but the underlying causes differ. Strep throat, a bacterial infection, often comes with a sudden onset of severe throat pain and difficulty swallowing. At the same time, seasonal allergies are triggered by pollen, leading to a runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. Understanding the key differences between these two can help you seek the appropriate treatment and find relief faster.
For same-day illness testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Union City. Our urgent care center is equipped to diagnose and treat all non-life-threatening conditions seven days a week, no appointment necessary.
The Difference Between Strep Throat and Seasonal Allergies
Strep throat and seasonal allergies may share similar symptoms, but they stem from different causes and require distinct treatments. Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus bacteria, typically resulting in a sudden, intense sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
On the other hand, seasonal allergies result from the body's immune system overreacting to airborne allergens, such as pollen, mold, or dust mites. Symptoms of allergies include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and mild throat irritation, but they are usually not accompanied by fever or severe pain. Recognizing these differences can help determine whether you need antibiotics for a bacterial infection or allergy medication to manage seasonal symptoms.
Treatment of Strep Throat and Seasonal Allergies
The treatment for strep throat and seasonal allergies differs significantly due to their distinct causes. Strep throat is treated with antibiotics caused by a bacterial infection. A healthcare provider will typically prescribe penicillin or amoxicillin, which help eliminate the bacteria and reduce the risk of complications. It's essential to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve. Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help manage discomfort, while warm salt water gargles and throat lozenges may offer additional relief.
Seasonal allergies, on the other hand, are treated with antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, or other allergy medications. Antihistamines, such as loratadine or cetirizine, help reduce sneezing, itching, and runny noses by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance released during an allergic reaction. Nasal corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, while saline nasal sprays can clear out allergens. If symptoms are particularly severe, an allergist may recommend allergy shots (immunotherapy) to desensitize the immune system to specific allergens gradually.
Tips For Relieving Symptoms at Home
Both conditions benefit from supportive care, such as drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding irritants, but following a treatment plan tailored to the specific condition is essential. If you're unsure whether your symptoms are due to strep throat or seasonal allergies, seeking professional advice is always a good idea. Visiting urgent care can provide quick access to a healthcare provider who can diagnose your condition accurately and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Get Walk-In Illness Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Union City
Prompt attention is significant if you suspect strep throat, as untreated bacterial infections can lead to complications. Urgent care centers can help relieve your discomfort and get you on the path to recovery faster, ensuring you receive the proper care for your specific needs. If you or a loved one needs rapid illness diagnosis and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Union City. No appointments are ever needed for any of our services, we’re a walk-in facility! We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, call us directly at (551) 257-1948.
