Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Strep throat vs. Viral pharyngitis


Blog contributed by Julie A. Lundblad, MSN, CRNP

How do I know if child has strep throat? Medical care providers cannot always tell by looking in the throat. Most offices can run a rapid strep test and the results are just minutes away. 80% of all sore throat office visits are viral, only 20% are from Strep.

Common symptoms of step throat:
  • Sudden onset of sore throat
  • Pain with swallowing
  • Fever >101
  • Red, swollen tonsils (sometimes white patches)
  • Swollen lymph nodes

Strep can also cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, rash, body aches, or tiny spots on the back of the throat (petechiae)

What is viral pharyngitis? Basically inflammation of the tonsils and back of the throat, with or without a fever. These are caused by viruses and upper respiratory infections.

Common symptoms of viral sore throat:
  • Sore throat, dry and scratchy
  • Runny nose, sneezing
  • Headache
  • Cough
  • Fatigue
  • Low grade fever

Strep throat is contagious, so if there is a known exposure, testing is necessary.  I recommend calling your Primary Care Physician for an appointment to rule out Strep. It is usually easily treated with an antibiotic for 5-10 days. If the sore throat is viral, the treatment is supportive and symptomatic.

55 comments:

  1. Why aren't antibiotics usually prescribed to treat pharyngitis?

    ReplyDelete
  2. I am impressed from this article.It is useful thanks for sharing wonderful post.In order to write an essay the students need some creative skills. These skills can be developed by keep on writing essays. In some websites they are provided tips for writing an essay. Based on the tips you can try to compose an essay. In case you are fed up with trying to write essay, you can seek an expert help from best essay writing service. Great written work, whether it's in a novel or an academic paper, is exact, suggestive and spiced with the unforeseen. Finding the right verb or descriptor can transform a deadened sentence into one individuals will recollect and cite for a considerable length of time to come. Search for words that are as particular as could reasonably be expected.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Haven't understant the main idea of your post. It seems to be it is related to nursing or medicine. I have nothing to do with that. If I need help in writing assignments I use the writer's advice from https://essaysprofessor.com/rewrite-my-essay.html they are very helpful.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Medicine is the main area of activity for maintaining good health. Caring for people, providing professional assistance, helping everyone to create a healthy lifestyle. Usually some health professionals perform their actions at the call of the heart and implement all the plans by contacting the service do my excel project for me

    ReplyDelete
  5. Well, this is an informative post and can be effective in giving first aid at home. Once my kid has gone through such throat issue and due to carelessness it got severe and took several days to get cured. As he wasn’t able to focus on his writing tasks for which I have to take the Top Essay Writing Service online for his academic work and also spared some time to help his academics. So, knowing these basic things can make it easier to take medical help.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Hello there, You've done a fantastic job. I'll
    definitely digg it and in my view suggest to my friends.
    I'm confident they'll be benefited from this site.
    슬롯머신


    >cc

    ReplyDelete
  7. You can rely on us for high-quality design. Our talented designers can help you create the perfect leather outfits today.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Excellent post it is very impressive and informative content I really like it good work keep it up.
    https://logoistic.com.au/3D-logo-design-services

    ReplyDelete
  9. Some websites ask for money upfront without providing any guarantee, whereas others provide the best homework help online services with no hidden charges. So, it is very important to know whether the website is reliable or not, and how much time it will take to complete the work.

    ReplyDelete
  10. I am thankful to this blog giving unique and helpful knowledge about this topic.
    dental surgery ballarat

    ReplyDelete
  11. Just reading and memorizing is not enough. Don't be one of those students who have great imagination skills but can't put them down on paper. Practice writing. It can be about things you read or anything that comes to your mind. Set a word counter and let your creative juices flow on Essay Help Online.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Excellent post it is very impressive and informative content I really like it good work keep it up.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Upgrade your living space without breaking the bank, thanks to santander home improvement loans that align with your financial goals.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Engage with discussions about bias and fairness in AI algorithms on AI Ideology.

    ReplyDelete
  15. The blog hosted on primary.pinnaclehealth.org serves as a platform for sharing valuable health-related information and insights. It covers a wide range of topics, including medical advice, wellness tips, and updates on healthcare services, catering to individuals seeking reliable health information.
    separation before divorce

    ReplyDelete
  16. It's a thrilling combination of Geometry Dash cutting-edge technology, competitive spirit, and a supportive community.

    ReplyDelete
  17. I am really impressed with your article, thank you for sharing. papa's games

    ReplyDelete
  18. PG Slot Asia เกมส์สล็อตพีจีออนไลน์ โดยตรงเว็บไซต์ใหม่ ฝากถอนโอนไวดูแลตลอดการเล่นเกมของลูกค้ารับโบนัสกับslot asia เล่นง่ายจ่ายเร็ว PG SLOT เว็บไซต์พวกเราเหมาะสมที่สุดในประเทศ

    ReplyDelete
  19. "south jersey flsa lawyer"
    The article 'Strep Throat vs. Viral Pharyngitis' provides a comprehensive overview of the differences between common throat conditions, highlighting symptoms and treatments. The author's comprehensive approach helps readers distinguish between strep throat and viral pharyngitis, empowering them to take proactive steps in managing these ailments. The article also suggests that incorporating preventative measures or self-care tips could enhance the comparison. Overall, the piece is a valuable resource for those seeking clarity on symptoms and self-diagnosis.

    ReplyDelete
  20. This corporation has many contributions to the country and helps people with many benefits

    ReplyDelete
  21. Deadpool & Wolverine Leather Jacket stands out as a symbol of fandom and style. With its rugged leather and iconic design, it merges superhero flair with everyday wear, embodying the American penchant for blending pop culture with personal expression. It's a statement of heroism in everyday life.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Whether through online leaderboards, social media groups, or friendly competitions with friends and family, bandle brings people together in the spirit of friendly rivalry and camaraderie.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Ntrader stands as a premier Trading Platform in india, distinguished by its intuitive interface, advanced charting capabilities, and diverse trading options. With strong security protocols and extensive educational resources, Ntrader ensures a seamless trading experience for Indian users, catering to both novice and experienced traders alike.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Moonpig discount codes offer significant savings on personalized greeting cards, gifts, and flower arrangements. Moonpig is popular for its wide selection of customizable cards, which can be tailored to suit various occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, and festive events. Additionally, Moonpig offers gifts like chocolates, balloons, and photo gifts, making it a one-stop shop for creating thoughtful presents.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Automated methods for optimizing model parameters (e.g., grid search, random search) enhance accuracy by fine-tuning the algorithm. Japan Casinos Online support

    ReplyDelete
  26. PinnacleHealth Medical Group emphasizes quality care through collaboration. Understanding the difference between strep throat and viral pharyngitis is crucial. Strep throat, often requiring a rapid test, presents with sudden sore throat, fever, and swollen tonsils. In contrast, viral pharyngitis features symptoms like a runny nose and cough. Remember, strep is contagious! For clarity, consider the block blast : "Stay informed, stay healthy!" Contact your Primary Care Physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.

    ReplyDelete
  27. To determine if a child has strep throat, a rapid test is essential, as 80% of sore throats are viral. Symptoms include sudden sore throat, fever, and swollen tonsils. If you suspect strep, contact your doctor for testing. Meanwhile, if you need a break, try the slope game to relax your mind!

    ReplyDelete
  28. Eazy to Net is one of the most reliable platforms for government job updates in Bihar. It’s always current, and I can easily navigate it to find new job openings and schemes.

    ReplyDelete
  29. Great insights on differentiating between strep throat and viral pharyngitis! It's crucial for parents to recognize these symptoms early. For a fun break between researching health topics, I recommend trying out the Slope. It’s a great way to unwind while also sharpening your reflexes.

    ReplyDelete
  30. Thank you for providing such an amazing platform for Radmin Vpn ! Your website is well-designed, informative, and easy to navigate. I appreciate the effort in ensuring a smooth experience for users.

    ReplyDelete
  31. It's crucial to distinguish between strep throat and viral pharyngitis, especially since symptoms can overlap. If your child has a sudden sore throat with high fever and swollen tonsils, a rapid strep test is a smart move. Remember, while 80% of sore throats are viral, strep needs prompt treatment to avoid complications. For a fun distraction, consider letting them play poptropica while they recover—it’s a great way to keep them engaged!

    ReplyDelete
  32. This article provides valuable insights into distinguishing between strep throat and viral pharyngitis, which is crucial for proper treatment. It's interesting how many sore throat cases are viral—80%! For parents, knowing when to seek medical help is essential. Speaking of engaging activities, have you tried the Sprunki game? It’s a fun way to distract kids during recovery! Always prioritize health, and don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider.

    ReplyDelete
  33. While both can cause throat pain, strep throat often demands antibiotic treatment. Just like in flappy bird, where a wrong move leads to failure, neglecting strep throat can lead to complications. Understanding the symptoms can help in seeking timely treatment to avoid those "game over" moments in health!

    ReplyDelete
  34. By combining cutting-edge security with strict compliance measures, crypto businesses can build trust, avoid penalties, and ensure long-term success in the evolving regulatory landscape. find early blockchain token offers

    ReplyDelete
  35. Enter the arena in Nullsbrawl! Pick your fighter, strategize, and battle in real-time against other players. Enjoy thrilling action, powerful characters, and endless competitive excitement for victory and ranking.

    ReplyDelete
  36. It's crucial to differentiate between strep throat and viral pharyngitis. Symptoms overlap, making rapid strep tests vital. While a sore throat could indicate strep, remember viruses cause most cases. Is your child's throat pain sharp and sudden, like navigating a tricky level in Geometry Dash ? Look for fever and swollen tonsils. Viral infections often bring runny noses. If strep exposure is known, consult your doctor promptly.

    ReplyDelete
  37. Pretty great post. Excellent ideas. Thanks for Awesome tips Keep it up!... MM

    ReplyDelete
  38. Very nice article and straight to the point works. Thank you for fantastic post... MM

    ReplyDelete
  39. I have taken this blog that written very well. I like you. I'll support you for your writing... MM

    ReplyDelete
  40. Greetings! Very helpful advice within this unique post! Thanks a lot... MM

    ReplyDelete
  41. One of the things I enjoy is how Speed Stars turns you into your own biggest competitor—chasing your best time becomes a personal mission every time you play.

    ReplyDelete
  42. Thank you for sharing this informative post about strep throat versus viral pharyngitis. As a parent, I've encountered this dilemma with my child. It's such a relief to know that a simple rapid strep test can differentiate between the two. I would also like to suggest that in your next health guide, you might consider including a fun way to cope with illness, perhaps a recommendation for the game Solar Smash. It’s a great distraction during recovery!

    ReplyDelete
  43. Interesting info! It's true, sore throats can be tricky. That rapid strep test is key for quick diagnosis. While waiting, you can try some home remedies like warm salt water gargles. Speaking of fast-paced, anyone playing Drift Boss Just as urgent as finding out if it's strep!

    ReplyDelete
  44. It's great to see healthcare providers like PinnacleHealth focusing on collaboration and preventive care! Strong communication among primary care and specialists truly enhances patient experiences and outcomes. Speaking of collaboration, have any of you tried Fnaf for some creative team-building fun? If you're curious, check it out Fnaf for a unique twist on teamwork!

    ReplyDelete
  45. The blog primary pinnacle health is a health-focused blog sharing guidance on primary care, wellness, and preventive medicine.
    It features articles on chronic disease management, healthy lifestyle choices, and routine medical care. The blog provides educational content aimed at helping patients make informed health decisions.
    It often highlights updates from PinnacleHealth’s primary care services and community health initiatives. Overall, it serves as a resource for reliable, easy-to-understand health and wellness information.
    field hockey betting
    best real money earning live casinos for

    ReplyDelete
  46. This is an incredibly helpful and clear breakdown from Julie A. Lundblad! It's so easy to get worried about a sore throat, and distinguishing between strep and viral pharyngitis with such specific symptoms like the sudden onset for strep versus a runny nose for viral, really clarifies when to seek testing. Knowing that 80% of sore throats are viral puts things into perspective too. For anyone looking to understand complex topics like this further, I often find transcribing educational videos helpful. Check out YouTube Transcript Generator to easily get text from videos and gain deeper insights.

    ReplyDelete
  47. This article is so helpful! Julie A. Lundblad, MSN, CRNP, does a fantastic job of demystifying the difference between strep and viral sore throats, especially with that 80/20 viral vs. strep breakdown. It’s comforting to know what symptoms to look out for and when a rapid strep test is truly necessary. It reminded me that even in seemingly clear-cut situations, some expert insight is invaluable. Speaking of unique transformations, if you're ever looking to convert images in interesting ways, you might enjoy checking out Photo to Pixel Art!

    ReplyDelete
  48. This is such a helpful breakdown, Julie! It's so easy to get worried about every sore throat, and this article clearly distinguishes between strep and viral pharyngitis, highlighting key symptoms and the importance of testing for strep. The reminder that 80% are viral is reassuring. For anyone summarizing health information like this, ensuring clarity is key. Sometimes, when using AI to draft content, it can introduce hidden characters or formatting quirks. I've found AI Cleaner Text to be an excellent tool for tidying up such text, making it much cleaner and professional before publishing.

    ReplyDelete
  49. This is an incredibly helpful breakdown! It's so easy to panic when a sore throat (especially in a child) seems severe, but understanding that 80% are viral provides much-needed perspective. The clear distinction between strep and viral symptoms, along with the emphasis on testing when strep is suspected, is invaluable. Knowing when to call the PCP is key. Thanks for these insights! For those looking to make a great first impression in other areas, like professional profiles, you might find the Attractiveness Test a useful tool.

    ReplyDelete
  50. This is such a clear and helpful breakdown, Julie! It's so easy to worry when a child has a sore throat, and understanding the key differences between strep and viral pharyngitis, especially the diagnostic nuances like rapid strep tests, is incredibly reassuring. Knowing what symptoms to look out for, and when to seek medical help versus simply manage symptoms, empowers parents. For anyone looking for creative inspiration while waiting for those test results, sometimes a visual break helps – I'd recommend checking out AI Image Generator By Nano Banana Pro for a fun distraction!

    ReplyDelete
  51. This is such a helpful and clear breakdown from Julie A. Lundblad! It's so easy to worry when a child has a sore throat, and distinguishing between strep and a viral infection with such practical tips, like the quick strep test and recognizing common symptoms, is invaluable. The emphasis on calling a PCP for potential strep exposure is also a crucial reminder. For anyone who needs to quickly get professional, clean graphics for medical content or illustrations, you might find Converter PNG to SVG really useful for creating scalable images out of your PNGs.

    ReplyDelete
  52. This is such a clear and concise breakdown by Julie A. Lundblad! I particularly appreciate the distinction between strep and viral pharyngitis, especially the statistic that 80% of sore throat visits are viral. Knowing when to test for strep based on specific symptoms like sudden onset and fever >101, and when supportive care is needed for viral cases, is incredibly helpful for parents. It really empowers us to make more informed decisions when our kids aren't feeling well. For anyone looking to present this kind of valuable health information online, a tool like Markdown to HTML Converter could be a great help for easy formatting!

    ReplyDelete
  53. This is such a helpful and clear breakdown, Julie! It's so easy to worry when a child has a sore throat, and this article really demystifies the differences between strep and viral pharyngitis, especially highlighting that 80% are viral. The symptom lists are incredibly useful for parents trying to decide when to call the PCP. Understanding that strep requires testing due to contagiousness and specific treatment, while viral is supportive, is key. For those moments when you're organizing health information or even family photos, I've found Merge JPG to be a fantastic tool for combining images easily.

    ReplyDelete