During cold and flu season, you may experience symptoms such as a runny nose and a sore throat. How can you tell if your symptoms are from the flu or if you have strep throat? The only way you can be absolutely sure is through flu and strep tests. The flu is a viral infection and strep throat is a bacterial infection. Diagnosing the cause of your sore throat can help you get the right treatment so you can feel better faster.

Flu & Strep Symptoms

The flu and strep throat can have similar symptoms that manifest differently from person to person. Flu symptoms come on gradually and include runny nose, fever, body aches and fatigue. Strep throat symptoms can come on suddenly and include fever, nausea, cough, body aches and difficulty swallowing. You may also experience swollen lymph nodes and have tiny red spots in the back of your mouth. Flu and strep tests can distinguish what is causing your symptoms so you can get the appropriate treatment.

The Importance of Flu & Strep Tests

During flu and strep tests, the tonsils and throat are swabbed to collect a sample for analysis. Results can be obtained in approximately 15 minutes. The flu and strep throat require different forms of treatment. Flu symptoms typically resolve on their own after a few weeks or can be treated with antiviral medications. Strep throat may not respond to antiviral medications and is generally treated with antibiotics.

Getting an accurate diagnosis could save your life. Strep throat can develop into other bacterial infections, such as scarlet fever or septic shock. Having the flu can make you more vulnerable to contracting strep throat and can lead to other serious health conditions. Individuals with compromised immune systems may want to go to an urgent care center when they have a sore throat.

Convenient Flu & Strep Tests from Rapid Immediate Care

If you have flu symptoms, you may want to consider flu and strep tests to keep yourself healthy. Rapid Immediate Care provides flu and strep tests to residents in Hoffman Estates. Contact our clinic to schedule a same day appointment, and feel better faster.