There is not just one sign or symptom that absolutely signals a
strep throat infection. Therefore, healthcare providers look for several clues to diagnose a strep infection. For example, does the person have a
sore throat that began suddenly and a fever? With strep throat, symptoms can vary; however, people who have this throat infection usually have at least two out of four of these signs or symptoms:
- A red and painful throat that begins suddenly
- A fever above 101ºF (38.3ºC)
- Red and enlarged tonsils -- there may also be white patches of pus on the tonsils or in the throat
- Tender or swollen lymph glands in the neck.
The symptoms of strep throat usually improve within two to five days. If a person has a sore throat for more than a week, it is typically not the result of strep throat.
(Click Strep Throat Symptoms for more information on common symptoms of strep throat, such as a fever and white patches of pus on the tonsils. This article outlines other specific symptoms of this throat infection and explains why treatment for these symptoms is important.)
HealthSavvy Sign In
|