How do you know if you have strep throat or the flu?

2020-07-14

How do you know if you have strep throat or the flu?

First, let’s distinguish between the two. Strep is a bacterial infection. Strep causes the throat to be very sore and it becomes very painful to swallow and they typically don’t eat, or only eat very soft things. With a cold or flu, children usually eat fine or if not the reason is appetite not pain with swallowing.

Can strep make you feel like you have a cold?

Signs and symptoms of strep throat are very similar to an ordinary sore throat, but in general strep throat has: White patches on the tonsils or back of the throat. Just a sore throat without cough/cold symptoms like a runny nose or congestion.

Whats worse the flu or strep?

While these symptoms are similar to that of a cold, the flu carries a much bigger risk of causing additional health complications such as strep throat, pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections.

Will strep throat go away on its own?

Strep throat usually goes away on its own within a week with or without antibiotic treatment, but without antibiotics, people may still be contagious for two to three weeks and are at a higher risk for complications.

Can you have strep and a runny nose?

Typically, runny nose, nasal congestion, and cough are not part of the strep throat infection but can sometimes be present if there is a concurrent viral upper respiratory infection. A rash on the trunk of the child can occasionally accompany strep throat as well.

What you can eat and should avoid with strep throat?

Cold Fluids. Drinking cold fluids helps keep your throat moist and prevent irritation.

  • Warm Fluids. You may also try warm fluids to soothe your throat pain.
  • Soft Starches. l Starches,such as cereal,bread,potatoes,and rice,are allowed when you are dealing with strep throat.
  • Soft Proteins.
  • What are some natural remedies for strep throat?

    Yogurt

  • Smoothies (prepared with fresh fruits)
  • Oatmeal
  • Porridge (cereals boiled with water and milk)
  • Boiled and mashed potatoes
  • Creamy Soups
  • Scrambled eggs
  • Pasta
  • Quinoa
  • Cheese and macaroni
  • Will strep throat go away by itself?

    Strep throat is a very common infection which causes sore throat in children. This infection usually takes around 3 to 7 days to go away on its own with or without any specific treatment. In most cases, strep goes away on its own. Antibiotics only help in minimizing the severity of the infection.

    What are the early signs of strep throat?

    Strep throat usually causes throat pain and difficulty swallowing. This photo of strep throat shows inflammation and red spots, caused by the infection. Signs and symptoms of strep throat can include: Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus. Tiny red spots on the area at the back of the roof of the mouth (soft or